BREAKING NEWS: Artemi Panarin is set to claim his jersey number with the LA Kings, but there's an interesting twist!
Just about a day after his trade to the Los Angeles Kings, forward Artemi Panarin took the time to address the media. He shared insights about leaving the New York Rangers and explained his decision to join the Kings, alongside a variety of other subjects. However, one particular statement generated a considerable amount of buzz — it turns out that Panarin is keen on wearing the number 72, but he has encountered a snag in doing so.
In his own words, Panarin expressed his desire for the number 72, yet he wasn't able to secure it immediately. He mentioned needing a bit more time to select an alternative number. #GoKingsGo
— The Mayor | Team MM (@mayorNHL) February 5, 2026
The reason behind the number's unavailability? It belongs to the Kings’ beloved mascot, Bailey, who has proudly worn it for nearly twenty years. Although the mascot's name pays homage to a renowned scout, Ace Bailey, the choice of number does not relate to him. Instead, Bailey dons the number 72 to symbolize the average temperature in Los Angeles — or at least what it was back in the early 2000s.
Interestingly, there are no official NHL regulations preventing players and mascots from sharing the same number. Nevertheless, it appears that Bailey, the lively lion, will not relinquish this number anytime soon. This development sparked quite a conversation online, as fans across North America voiced their opinions regarding which number might best suit the talented sniper.
However, in a recent update shared by NHL Radio last Saturday morning, it was announced that an agreement has been reached. Panarin will indeed be able to wear his desired number! This topic was further explored on the Kings Of The Podcast over the weekend, where fans were given more details about the arrangement.
Now, this matter has been officially finalized, and jerseys featuring Panarin's number are already available for purchase through the link provided below:
As for what this all means for Bailey, that information is anticipated to be disclosed later next week.
Stay tuned for more updates by following @mayorsmanor on Twitter!
FOR MORE LA KINGS NEWS:
Catch Holland’s full remarks from the Kings’ midseason press conference here.
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