Clear Favorites to Sign Artemi Panarin and Sergei Bobrovsky Reportedly Revealed

With NHL Free Agency set to begin momentarily, two of the best players available in Artemi Panarin and Sergei Bobrovsky are reportedly nearing their decisions. And no, they aren't a packaged deal.

According to Bob McKenzie of TSN, Bobrovsky is leaning heavily towards the Florida Panthers while Artemi Panarin seems likely to sign with the New York Islanders.

It doesn’t appear as though Artemi Panarin and Sergei Bobrovsky will be signed as a set. Signs point toward Bobrovsky ending up in FLA while NYI appear the favourite to land Panarin. Both players are repped by the same agent, Paul Theofanous.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) June 30, 2019

McKenzie did clarify that neither is considered a done deal and much could change between now and when teams can actually ink these players on Monday.

Still, Panarin has been linked with the Islanders for quite some time now, especially considering their cap room and success last season, which included a first-round sweep of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

As for Bobrovsky, his intention to sign with the Panthers has been the worst-kept secret in the NHL. Florida has a ton of money to spend and a significant need for a goaltender. It just makes too much sense.

Is that Sergei Bobrovsky's music I hear in Florida? https://t.co/QfhyxC90Lb
— Adam Gretz (@AGretz) June 30, 2019

For Columbus, this concludes just about any chance they had at retaining their two stars, which was expected as early as last trade deadline, when the Jackets opted to go all-in on a postseason run rather than trading both players for assets.