I think the impact this guy brings to his team is only behind McDavid.
Currently this season his point per game rate is equal to Drai and behind McDavid so even production wise he qualifies as second best.
But I think what’s more important is his impact on different game situation.
He did lead the league in ES points, his OT record is ridiculous - Columbus went from the best to the worst OT team when Panarin left and he’s also one of the best shootout specialists in the league
Currently this season his point per game rate is equal to Drai and behind McDavid so even production wise he qualifies as second best.
But I think what’s more important is his impact on different game situation.
He did lead the league in ES points, his OT record is ridiculous - Columbus went from the best to the worst OT team when Panarin left and he’s also one of the best shootout specialists in the league