The latest from training camp: Panarin speak, Gallant on ice time & personnel moves
By Steve Paulus
Panarin speaks
On Saturday, Artemi Panarin had his first media availability since before the Tom Wilson incident that sidelined him for the season. He made it clear that had not injured his head at that time, that it was another part of the body. He did say it came about because he had tried to fight back when Wilson attacked him saying that it would have been better for him to stay down.
He did express his gratitude to his teammates for standing up to the Capitals the next game saying through an interpreter that “it really made him appreciate the team and he realizes this is a team he wants to do everything he can for.”
He was asked if he prefers to play with Ryan Strome as his center as he has for two seasons. Panarin said that “they make a great team together and they haven’t tried playing with other teammates.” He added that “they have a great dynamic on and off the ice.”
He did say he was “disappointed” by the Buchnevich trade, but he said that “transfers” happen and had happened to him.
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Panarin confirmed earlier reports that didn’t want to be captain, saying that there are better candidates. He wouldn’t say that the team needs a captain, but did speak about the need for leadership on the team and admitted that as an older player, he is someone the other players look up to.
He said that he would be happy to play for Russia at the Olympics saying “it would be a great honor to play for the team.” He said that he hadn’t heard anything about who was being considered.
The best news was his optimism about the team. He said, “We definitely could have reached the playoffs last year, we have a good team, well organized with a new coach. There’s a positive attitude.”