Star power in the world of New York sports is a regular topic of debate. However, the host of The Michael Kay Show shared an exciting but unusual perspective. He took things to a whole new level while discussing who the bigger star is. Is it the New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge or NHL superstar Artemi Panarin of the New York Rangers? 

While both of them are great sportspeople, the host offered a reason as to why one could be better than the other. His comment left listeners scratching their heads. But it’s important to keep in perspective that, “..Panarin’s had a very underrated season” and Aaron Judge has been in the thick of quite a slump. 

New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge vs the New York Rangers’ Artemi Panarin

The broadcaster goes on to acknowledge, “I think Panarin’s had a very underrated season,” recognizing Panarin’s impressive 120-point campaign. He continues nevertheless that Panarin might not be the biggest star in the Big Apple. His words were, “How is Panarin supposed to win it? He’s a Ranger, it’s hockey, it’s the fourth sport. He’s a Russian like there’s a lot of things that work against Artemi although I think he’s very witty..”

Then came the curveball. “But the answer would be Judge,” making a thought-provoking statement. He went on with his explanation about why Panarin or even Jalen Brunson from the NBA might not surpass the Yankees’ star slugger. Pressing on his reasoning, an interesting response came, “Don’t you feel like the answer would be Judge because he’s a Yankee?”

That said, even Juan Soto came up in the conversation. Now, despite the fact that he is a one-year rental and his imminent free agency could take him out of the Bronx, he is presently a Yankee. So does this mean that Soto is the best NY sports sensation available? 

Which player stands out in New York?

There have been circling opinions about this subject. While Panarin’s league-leading points total is a clear indicator of his dominance, there are factors in Judge’s bucket that could solidify his status as a homegrown superhero. The question about whether Soto is in the mix remains unclear. 

The debate serves as a reminder of the unique ways athletes achieve celebrity status in the Big Apple. The host went on to back that up with, “because you know how New York is.” The New Yorkers are quite a passionate bunch and the supporters of each sport are likely to hold their respective starts in high regard regardless of the stats. While playing for a storied team like the Yankees undoubtedly provides a platform, determining who is better than the rest is far beyond just that. It’s the individual talent and accomplishments that are also significant factors.