(670 The Score) One of the most iconic Blackhawks of all time is leaving town.
The Blackhawks traded star winger Patrick Kane to the New York Rangers on Tuesday evening, the team announced. In return, Chicago received a 2023 conditional second-round pick, a 2025 fourth-round pick and defenseman Andy Welinski from New York. The 2023 conditional second-round pick will turn into a first-round pick in 2024 or 2025 if the Rangers reach the Eastern Conference Finals this season, according to reports. If the Rangers do so, it will be a top-10 protected first-round pick in 2024 and then roll over to 2025 should New York land a top-10 pick in 2024. The Blackhawks also sent defenseman Cooper Zech to the Rangers and received defenseman Vili Saarijarvi from the Arizona Coyotes in a trade that expanded into a three-team deal.
The news came as no surprise, as Kane – who's in the final year of his contract and largely controlled his future with a no-trade clause – had been eyeing the Rangers as a destination for some time while the rebuilding Blackhawks play out the string of a rough season.
Kane, 34, is a nine-time All-Star and was a central figure in the Blackhawks’ dynasty in the 2010s, helping lead them to Stanley Cup titles in 2010, 2013 and 2015. He ranks third in Blackhawks history in goals (446), second in assists (779) and second in points (1,225). The Blackhawks selected Kane at No. 1 overall in the 2007 NHL Draft.
“I’m so thankful for everything the city, the Blackhawks organization, my teammates and the fans have done for me and my family over the last 16 years — the support was constant from day one and Chicago will forever be home for us," Kane said in a statement released by the Blackhawks.
"This has been an emotional time for me and my family, but I feel this decision puts me in the best spot to immediately win another Stanley Cup. This isn’t about me leaving the Blackhawks, but this is an opportunity for me — the Blackhawks did everything they could to put me in a great position and I will forever be grateful. It is bittersweet to leave a place that is so special to me, but I will always carry the memories we made in Chicago.
"I will miss the roar of the United Center, the deafening sound of the anthem and the people of Chicago. Together, we made memories that will last a lifetime like the three Stanley Cup champions banners that will forever hang at the United Center. I look forward to this next step in my career and will forever be appreciative for all I have received from the Blackhawks and Chicago.”
Kane is also third all-time in NHL history in points by an American-born player. He's having another strong season, with 45 points (16 goals, 29 assists) in 54 games.
“The contributions Patrick Kane has made to the Blackhawks organization and city of Chicago will never be forgotten," Blackhawks CEO Danny Wirtz said in a statement. "While today marks the end of an era for the team, he will forever be a part of the Blackhawks family. Three Stanley Cups, over 1,000 games, more than 1,200 points, over 400 goals and countless awards are just part of the legacy he leaves here — one of the greatest Blackhawks players in club history. On behalf of Rocky, and my entire family, we wish Patrick, Amanda, Patrick III and the rest of his family all the best with the New York Rangers and we thank him for the countless joyful memories.
"As we close Patrick’s chapter in club history, we look forward to what will be another exciting era. We have full faith and trust in (general manager) Kyle Davidson and his team to showcase their future vision for this team. We share this continued journey with our loyal fans and forever appreciate their support.”
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