Panarin said the whirlwind of the past two days sapped some of his energy and emotion, and he called it a difficult time having to choose between the Rangers, New York Islanders, Colorado Avalanche, Florida Panthers and, his former team, the Columbus Blue Jackets.
The Blue Jackets made a late push Sunday night to sign Panarin to an eight-year contract when they were the only team that could offer him that much term. Panarin scored 87 points (28 goals, 59 assists) in 79 games with Columbus last season.
"It was really difficult due to some nuances having to do with money and cities and moving," Panarin said. "There was a moment where I just sat down for 10 minutes and really thought about it, and my heart told me that New York would be the better place for me."
He meant the Rangers in particular, although the Islanders also made a strong push to get him. Panarin said the energy of playing at the Garden excites him.
"I can't wait for the first game," he said. "It's unfortunate that we have to wait so long until the season starts."