Artemi Panarin – Likelihood of Selection: 35%
Artemi Panarin is the NHL’s idea of a superstar and as a result, he’s arguably most likely to be selected for the All-Star Game. The Columbus Blue Jackets forward is currently tied with Cam Atkinson in points and as a result he’s going to be given a long look as an option to make it to San Jose.
Artemi Panarin’s name by itself brings a level of star power with it, which is why even if he doesn’t win the fan vote; he’ll likely be given a shot to show off his game on a national level. The NHL likes players who market themselves as a star and since the league are the ones who choose the All-Stars that certainly helps his case.
That’s not to say that Panarin’s play on the ice hasn’t deserved recognition. He’s currently over a point per game and leads the Blue Jackets in assists by far. He’s a first line player on every team in the NHL and is a top left winger in the league.
The question remains whether or not the Columbus Blue Jackets fans would look positively on this considering his current unrestricted free agent status following this season. It’s even possible that he gets traded prior to this event, which would make the game much more awkward for Blue Jackets fans.
Artemi Panarin will likely be one of the Blue Jackets representatives at the 2019 NHL All-Star Game, however it’ll be a controversial decision by the league.