Artemi Panarin a Game-Time Decision for Rangers

Artemi Panarin will be a game-time decision for the New York Rangers Saturday as they take on the Boston Bruins, a team they are chasing for the last playoff spot available in the MassMutual East Division.

Panarin returned to practice in Boston Wednesday after a leave of absence, though he didn't play in Thursday's match against the Bruins.

Post-practice updates from #NYR Coach Quinn:

-Panarin will be game-time decision tomorrow
-Shesterkin will not play vs. BOS
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) March 12, 2021

Panarin left on Feb. 22 after a Russian tabloid printed a story alleging he abused a woman in Lativa almost a decade ago. The outlet cited his former KHL coach, Andrei Nazarov, as its source. Panarin denies the report.

The Rangers called the story a fabrication designed to intimidate Panarin for his outspoken opposition to Russian leader Vladamir Putin. Nazarov has said that he was motivated to bring light to the alleged incident because of Panarin's repeated criticism of the Russian government.

This year, Panarin posted his support on social media for Russia's opposition leader, Alexei Navalny.

Say it with us:

PRIVET, BREADMAN. pic.twitter.com/VANV62fn6r
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) March 10, 2021

The Russia sniper is in the second year of his $81.5 million contract, making him the highest-paid NHL player in the Big Apple. He was the Rangers leading scorer when he stepped away, with five goals and 18 points in 14 games. He is now in a tie with Ryan Strome for second in team scoring, with his fellow countryman Pavel Buchnevich leading the way with 20 points (7 goals, 13 assists).