An Open Letter from Auston Matthews to Artemi Panarin, the Fans, and the Entire Rangers Community
Dear Artemi, Rangers Fans, and the New York Rangers Community,
As I sit here reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve all shared in the world of hockey, I couldn’t help but feel the overwhelming sense of respect and admiration I have for you, Artemi, and for the entire New York Rangers community. It’s a community that has witnessed its fair share of triumphs and challenges, a city whose passion for the game transcends beyond the ice and into the heart of its fans. And as one of the proud members of the hockey community, I want to take a moment to acknowledge you, your commitment, and the remarkable impact you have made, not only on the Rangers, but on the entire league.
Artemi, since you arrived in New York, you’ve been nothing short of exceptional. Your skill, vision, and dedication to the game have quickly made you one of the brightest stars in the NHL. I’ve always had a tremendous amount of respect for your game—your playmaking ability is second to none. Watching you dance around defenders and create opportunities for your teammates is a testament to the level of artistry you bring to the ice. But beyond that, it’s the way you carry yourself both on and off the ice that truly sets you apart. The passion you play with, the intensity you bring each night, and your leadership are qualities that make you a role model for many young players and fans alike.
The Rangers’ faithful are some of the most passionate and dedicated fans in the entire league, and it’s been clear from day one that you have earned their unwavering support. The Garden roars when you make a play, when you score, when you lead the team. There’s an electricity in that building that’s hard to replicate anywhere else in the league. And it’s not just about the moments of brilliance on the ice. It’s the way you show up every game, every practice, and how you represent the Rangers with class and professionalism. It’s that level of consistency and dedication that resonates with fans, old and new alike.
The beauty of hockey is that it’s a team sport, and it’s through teamwork that the game truly shines. But there’s no denying that certain players have an undeniable influence on the dynamics of the team, and Artemi, you are one of those players. Your connection with your teammates, especially with players like Mika Zibanejad, has helped form one of the most dynamic duos in the NHL. The chemistry you share on the ice is a result of countless hours of hard work, practice, and understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. But beyond the X’s and O’s, it’s the unspoken bond between players that makes teams successful, and that bond is something you’ve helped foster within the Rangers.
To the Rangers fans, I want to say thank you. Thank you for your continued passion and support of this incredible organization. As a player, I can tell you that there’s no better feeling than stepping onto the ice and knowing that the crowd has your back. The energy at Madison Square Garden, the chants, the signs, and the unwavering loyalty from you all make the experience of playing against the Rangers something special. It’s not just a game when you come to the Garden—it’s an event, and there’s an unmistakable aura that surrounds it. You’ve been through highs and lows, but your loyalty has never wavered, and that is something to be proud of.
As a player, I can say that playing in the NHL has been the greatest privilege of my life, and each matchup, especially against a team like the Rangers, is a testament to how great the league is. Every time I step onto the ice, I’m reminded of the history that’s been made in that rivalry and the magnitude of each game. Your organization’s commitment to excellence, your drive to be better, and your unwavering belief in your team make the Rangers a constant force in the league. Every time we face off, I’m reminded of the skill and grit that you, Artemi, and the entire Rangers roster embody.
So, as the season continues and we all look toward the future, I just want to take this moment to express my appreciation for you, Artemi, for everything you’ve done for the Rangers, for your fans, and for the sport we all love. You’ve helped raise the bar for what it means to be a leader in this league. I look forward to the future battles between our teams, and I know that every time we hit the ice, the competition will be fierce and the stakes high. But no matter what, I’ll always have a deep respect for your game, your passion, and the way you represent the game of hockey.
To the fans and the entire Rangers community, thank you for everything. I look forward to sharing the ice with you again soon.
Sincerely,
Auston Matthews
#34, Toronto Maple Leafs
