Artemi Panarin signs a 7-year contract with the New York Rangers

Panarin's new deal worth $81.5 million

Panarin is a key part of the Rangers' future plans

Artemi Panarin has signed a seven-year, $81.5 million contract with the New York Rangers, the team announced on Friday. The deal has an average annual value of $11.643 million and will keep Panarin in New York through the 2025-26 season.

Panarin, 28, is one of the most dynamic and dangerous forwards in the NHL. He has recorded at least 28 goals and 74 points in each of the past four seasons, and he has been named to the NHL All-Star Team three times.

Panarin is a key part of the Rangers' future plans. The team is hoping to build a contender around him and young stars like Mika Zibanejad and Igor Shesterkin. Panarin's signing is a major step in that direction.