NHL Rumors: New York Rangers Interested in Trading For Patrick Kane

While an in-season blockbuster seems unlikely at this point the New York Rangers weren't scared to let the Chicago Blackhawks know they are interested in acquiring star winger Patrick Kane. According to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet the Rangers have contacted the Blackhawks to ask about Kane.

Friedman goes on to say he doesn't think Chicago is ready to part with Kane and/or Toews and they sit down with those two in the summer to see where they are at. So don't get your hopes up during the TDL.

— NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) March 11, 2022

The Blackhawks are expected to make multiple moves before the March 21 trade deadline but as Friedman points out, it won't include Kane, Jonathan Toews, and you can add Seth Jones to the list. They've entered a rebuild but 'legends row' isn't going to be tampered with just yet as if things can get expedited, perhaps Kane and Toews re-sign for cheap and stick around to be a part of the solution.

As for the star winger, Kane has recorded 65 points in 55 games and at 33 years old, doesn't appear to be slowing down anytime soon. He's been a consistent bright spot for the Blackhawks in what's become a very disappointing season after a busy offseason and sky-high expectations. Kane is a New York native and has been linked to the Rangers for multiple seasons, and a big reason for this is because he's come out publicly and admitted playing with Artemi Panarin was the most fun he's ever had on the ice.

The Rangers are a team to watch as not only are they interested in acquiring the Blackhawks veteran, they have the means to pull it off. New York is jam packed with prospects and young roster players and any deal is expected to have at least three-pieces heading back to the windy city. Kane is signed through next season at $10.5 million against the cap, the Rangers currently have $9.8 million in 2022-23 projected cap space according to CapFriendly.com. 

Get your popcorn ready NHL fans. The trade deadline is going to be nuts, and while a Kane deal to the Rangers doesn't seem likely at this point, both teams are expected to finalize multiple moves before the deadline next Monday.

Photo credit: Mitchell Leff-USA TODAY Sports