Peter Laviolette Declares Artemi Panarin the Best Player He Has Ever Coached
New York, NY – February 18, 2025 – In a bold and candid statement, New York Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette has declared Artemi Panarin the best player he has ever coached. Given Laviolette’s storied career, which includes leading multiple NHL teams and winning a Stanley Cup, this declaration has sent shockwaves through the hockey world.
A Historic Career Spanning Decades
Peter Laviolette has built a reputation as one of the NHL’s most respected and successful coaches. Over the course of his coaching career, he has worked with some of the league’s greatest talents, including Alexander Ovechkin, Shea Weber, and Claude Giroux. However, during a press conference following the Rangers’ dominant 5-1 victory over the Boston Bruins, Laviolette did not hesitate when asked about the impact Panarin has had on the team.
“I’ve been fortunate to coach some incredible players in my career,” Laviolette said. “But what Artemi Panarin brings to the game every night is something truly special. His skill, vision, and ability to make everyone around him better set him apart from anyone I’ve ever coached.”
Panarin’s Dominance on the Ice
Panarin has been nothing short of spectacular for the Rangers this season. As of mid-February, he leads the team in both goals and assists, sitting among the top scorers in the NHL. His ability to control the pace of the game and make plays in critical moments has been instrumental in keeping the Rangers at the top of the standings.
Laviolette highlighted not just Panarin’s offensive prowess but also his leadership and dedication to the game. “He’s not just an elite scorer—he’s the heartbeat of this team. He leads by example, works tirelessly on and off the ice, and brings a level of creativity that makes every game exciting to watch.”
A Growing Legacy
Panarin, 33, is no stranger to accolades. Since joining the NHL in 2015, he has consistently been among the league’s most dynamic offensive players. From his early days with the Chicago Blackhawks to his tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets, and now as the face of the Rangers, Panarin has continuously evolved his game.
When asked about Laviolette’s comments, Panarin humbly deflected attention to his teammates. “It’s a huge honor to hear that from a coach like Peter, but hockey is a team sport. Everything I accomplish is because of the great guys I play with,” he said. “We have a special group here, and our goal is to bring the Stanley Cup to New York.”
Comparisons to the Greats
Laviolette’s endorsement of Panarin has sparked debates among analysts and fans alike. With the coach having worked with Hall of Fame-caliber players, many are now questioning where Panarin ranks among the NHL’s elite.
NHL analyst Kevin Weekes weighed in on the discussion, stating, “Panarin’s skill set is truly remarkable. He’s got the hands of a Patrick Kane, the vision of a Nikita Kucherov, and the playmaking ability of a prime Pavel Datsyuk. If Laviolette believes he’s the best he’s ever coached, that speaks volumes.”
The Future for Panarin and the Rangers
With Panarin in peak form and Laviolette fully backing his star winger, the Rangers are in a prime position to make a deep playoff run. The ultimate goal remains clear: bringing the Stanley Cup back to Madison Square Garden for the first time since 1994.
“I believe in this team, and I believe in Panarin as the leader who can take us to the promised land,” Laviolette stated. “What he’s doing right now is special, and I can’t wait to see how far he can take us.”
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Artemi Panarin to see if he can turn his stellar individual performance into team success. One thing is certain: with the full confidence of his coach, Panarin is poised to continue proving why he deserves the title of the best player Peter Laviolette has ever coached
