Brooks: Artemi Panarin takes a leave of absence from New York Rangers

Anthony Scultore Updated: Feb 22, 2021

Jan 19, 2021; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers left wing Artemi Panarin (10) honors the NHLs first Black player Willie O'Ree with a commemorative helmet sticker prior to a game against the New Jersey Devils at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Bennett/Pool Photos-USA TODAY Sports

Artemi Panarin is taking a leave of absence per Larry Brooks of the NY Post. According to Brooks’ reporting Panarin has been involved in a political hit piece after showing support to Vladimir Putin’s political opponent, Alexi Navalany.

Breaking news: Panarin is taking a leave of absence from NYR in aftermath of political hit piece against him from Russia alleging that he beat up an 18-year-old girl in Russia in 2011.
— Larry Brooks (@NYP_Brooksie) February 22, 2021

Retribution was feared after Panarin's Instagram post on 1/21 in support of opposition leader Alexi Navalny with caption "Freedom for Navalny." Panarin, who has family in Russia, has been outspoken against Putin.
— Larry Brooks (@NYP_Brooksie) February 22, 2021

This is stunning on many levels and the story has yet to develop.

UPDATE: NYR RELEASE STATEMENT

Artemi Panarin Rangers — Panarin (Getty Images)

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By Anthony Scultore

Anthony Scultore is the founder of Forever Blueshirts and has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL... More about Anthony Scultore

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