New York Rangers release statement of support as Artemi Panarin denies allegations
The New York Rangers have released a statement in support of Artemi Panarin. The forward is also vehemently denying these allegations put forth by his former KHL coach, Andrei Nazarov.
Rangers release statement on Panarin
“Artemi vehemently and unequivocally denies any and all allegations in this fabricated story. This is clearly an intimidation tactic being used against him for being outspoken on recent political events. Artemi is obviously shaken and concerned and will take some time away from the team. The Rangers fully support Artemi and will work with him to identify the source of these unfounded allegations.”
Panarin’s outspoken criticism of President Putin
The allegation claims the incident took place in 2011in Riga. It also claims 40,000 Euros were paid to make the case go away. Panarin’s former coach also brought up Panarin’s critical social media posts for some inexplicable reason.
Panarin has been a critic of Vladimir Putin and even expressed support for one of his political opponents.
“I think he no longer understands what’s right and what’s wrong. Psychologically, it’s not easy for him soberly judge the situation…I am not saying this because I see any kind of profit for myself in this. I want the people to live better, for teachers and doctors to have better salaries. I don’t want some ballerinas (Panarin is referring to the ultra-patriotic former dancer Anastasia Volochkova) to say, ‘If you don’t like it here, you can leave!’ This is raving madness! Everyone has left already, all the brains are gone. This shouldn’t be happening.”
Panarin via Sportsnet
His criticisms of Putin have not been met well from other Russian hockey players in the past. Alexandar Ovechkin being the most prominent to disagree with Panarin.
This story continues to develop.
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