Rangers provide first update on Artemi Panarin following his leave of absence

Since Artemi Panarin left the New York Rangers on February 22nd following serious allegations out of Russia, very little has been said by the team about when he might return. The accusations from former KHL coach Andrei Nazarov included the alleged beating of an 18-year-old girl at a bar. However, they appear to have found very little traction, with several of Panarin's former teammates calling the story fabricated, while an actual victim has never come forward. Many seem to believe this is either a political ploy based on Panarin's feelings on Russian President Vladimir Putin, or simply a personal vendetta from someone that many have described as being "mentally unstable." Nazarov bluntly told a Russian media outlet that he doesn't like Panarin and would ensure their paths don't cross in the future, all while insisting his allegations are real.

Either way, it appears Panarin is closer to getting back to hockey. While the Rangers are still not putting a timeline on his return, coach David Quinn told NHL.com that Panarin is skating and is "getting closer to returning." That would be good news for New York as Panarin is their star player.

If the allegations against Panarin contain any truth whatsoever, they are horrific. If they don't, it's equally as horrifying for someone to be falsely accused of something as serious as this. There has been speculation out of Russia that Panarin may consider suing Nazarov for smearing his name, but there's been no official announcement of legal action at this point. Panarin's main concern appears to be the safety of his family, who remain in Russia.

Without specific proof, or even someone else corroborating his story, Nazarov's allegations certainly seem to be false and this point. If that is indeed the case, hopefully Panarin can resume his normal life in the very near future.

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