NHL Rumors: Blackhawks Want One Of Two Rangers Forwards For Kane

If a Patrick Kane trade to the New York Rangers is going to go through, there is a chance that Alexis Lafreniere or Kaapo Kakko are heading back to the Chicago Blackhawks. Darren Dreger stated that of course the Blackhawks want Lafreniere or Kakko in a Kane trade.

Neither of the young forwards of the Rangers have lived up to the spot they were taken in the draft yet, but are both still 21 years old. This is the type of young player that the Blackhawks are looking for to help them turn things around in the future.

Kakko has shown signs that he is starting to improve, offensively and defensively. He has recorded five assists in the last five games and has seen more time in the top-six this season than Lafreniere. He is a little bit better of a goal-scorer, but hasn't shown it this season. He has also been held without much power play time at all in his career which is something that could help get his offensive game going. On a rebuilding team with more opportunity, either of these young players can thrive.

I would think the only way the Rangers would deal one of these players in return for Kane is if there's a deal in place for Kane to sign on for at least one more season. This would solidify their top-six and give the team a much better chance at winning. If not, Kane isn't worth a young player with potential like both have for less than half a season.