Panarin hits 30-goal mark, virtually assures big bonus

The Bread Man is leaving no doubt that he deserves a little more dough.

Chicago Blackhawks rookie Artemi Panarin exploded in the first period against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday, assisting on a Patrick Kane goal, then scoring two of his own, including his 30th of the season.

Panarin is due a $1.725-million bonus if he finishes top 10 in the NHL in points this season.

His first period eruption vaulted him into a tie for seventh with San Jose Sharks forward Joe Pavelski at 77 points.

He's likely in line for performance bonuses totaling $2.575 million this season, according to Sportsnet's Chris Johnston.

General Fanager has the Blackhawks with a projected end-of-season cap space figure of $143,538, and they'd likely have to part ways with another player in the offseason to accommodate Panarin's raise.

(Video courtesy: NHL.com)