Scott Powers of The Athletic (subscription required) recently wrote Columbus Blue Jackets forward Artemi Panarin would heavily consider returning to the Chicago Blackhawks and signing an extension, according to a source close to Panarin.

Panarin has been mentioned in trade speculation with the Blue Jackets who might move him since he's refusing to negotiate a long-term extension with the team. If Columbus can't keep him on the roster over the next number of seasons, they may have to trade him for the best possible return prior to this season's NHL trade deadline. If Panarin doesn't sign with anyone, he'll be an unrestricted free agent next summer.

Powers wrote,"The Blackhawks would be 'very seriously considered' by Panarin if he were to become an unrestricted free agent after next season." Powers then wrote Panarin’s agent Dan Milstein wouldn’t comment on the possibility of Panarin returning to the Blackhawks or anything about Panarin’s future when reached on Friday, but most know a reunion with the Blackhawks would make some sense.

RELATED: ARTEMI PANARIN CONTRACT TALKS STALL IN BLUE JACKETS MEETING

chicago tribune

Panarin used to play with Chicago and his time there is what made him a star. On the same line as Patrick Kane, in 2015-16 and 2016-17, Panarin had seasons of 77 and 74 points in 80 and 82 games respectively. Perhaps more importantly for Chicago, Panarin was a huge boost to Kane's numbers, helping him post his best seasons as a pro with 106 and 89 points.

The trouble for the Blackhawks will be how to acquire Panarin if they too are interested. They don't appear to have the assets to trade for his $6 million contract this season and if they want to sign him as a free agent, will need to shed salary off their books to fit in what could be a $9 million-per-year contract over seven seasons.

As it stands right now, Panarin is expected to return to the Blue Jackets and has given the team a deadline of Sept 13th to trade him or work out a deal. He does not want to talk contracts come the start of the season.

NEXT: MARK STONE AND OTTAWA SENATORS AGREE TO BIG-MONEY ONE-YEAR DEAL