(WFAN) Are the New York Rangers inching closer to making another big trade splash?
Based on their recent roster moves, they just might be positioning themselves to make a move for Blackhawks star Patrick Kane.
The Rangers announced that winger Vitali Kravtsov and forward Jake Leschyshyn were both unavailable against the Red Wings on Thursday due to “roster management reasons,” which raised eyebrows given Kravstov’s trade request and that New York could be preserving the health of both players should they be used in a trade package to acquire Kane.
Even after the Rangers acquired another veteran winger in Vladimir Tarasenko, speculation is swirling that they're gunning for Kane. That would likely require Kane’s Blackhawks to retain some of his salary and probably a third team to be involved in the trade to make the money work for the Rangers.
Kane, 34, has been on fire of late, logging 10 points in his last four games. He was clearly disappointed when the Rangers traded for Tarasenko and has made it clear that he'd seriously consider waiving his no-trade clause for a deal to New York. Given Kane's standing with Chicago after winning three Stanley Cups with the franchise, the Blackhawks would likely make an effort to satisfy Kane’s desire in terms of where he wants to wind up.
That could be New York, and the Rangers just might be preparing for that possibility.
Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter @ryanchichester1.
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