Rangers’ Artemi Panarin Reveals Unique But ‘Successful’ Teammate Diet

21 Sep 2024, 11:45 by Antonio Losada · The Fresno Bee

Artemi Panarin has high expectations for New York Rangers teammate and former No. 1 pick Alexis Lafreniere entering next season, but he couldn't resist cracking a joke about what might be fueling his linemate's success.

"I just think he can be a game changer every game," Panarin said on September 20, via Mollie Walker of the New York Post. "That's what I see."

Panarin praised the young forward's improvement and he couldn't stop there, adding the ultimate dig.

"He came in in shape, he looked pretty good on the ice," Panarin continued. "Glad to see that. I think he likes eating burgers all summer because he has success here."

The lighthearted comment came after Panarin, Lafreniere, and Vincent Trocheck reunited as the Rangers' top line early in training camp, something they did for the full regular and post-season last year to great success.

The trio found impressive chemistry last season, with Lafreniere enjoying a breakout campaign of 57 points, contributing to the line's 54 goals during the regular season.

Despite the joke, Panarin is confident in Lafreniere's potential, pointing to his offseason work and renewed focus.

Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette kept the "Panarin Line" intact to start camp and he also discussed Lafreniere's mindset ahead of the 2025 season.

"There's definitely a confidence that you see with him in his game, and then watching it build all year into the playoffs," Laviolette said on Wednesday, via The New York Post. "He had a very good year.

"He certainly had a strong year that seemed to get better and stronger and more confident as the year went on. We'd like to see him take steps from there."

This story was originally published September 21, 2024, 4:45 AM.