The New York Rangers have traded away Ryan Reaves and some are wondering if that will set up a big future move at some point this season.
Overall, just getting a fifth-round draft pick for a player who was scratched in seven of the last eight games with the original six hockey club seems like a big win alone for general manager Chris Drury.
But most importantly, the move gives the Rangers much-needed cap relief.
It now has just more than $2 million to work with.
More interestingly that number is projected to jump to about $6.68 million by this season’s trade deadline, which takes place on March 3.
That deal puts the Rangers back in a legit conversation to make a run at star Chicago Blackhawks winger Patrick Kane.
The Rangers with two first-round picks for the upcoming draft.
However, there are still some challenges that would need to be overcome to make a deal work.
For one, Kane’s cap hit sits at $10.5 million – meaning the Rangers would need the Blackhawks to retain some salary or take a contract.
Usually, rebuilding teams like the Blackhawks are more than willing to do this if a team is willing to add a sweetener to the package.
That could include another draft pick or a player/prospect.
The other issue is Kane has a full no-move clause – meaning he doesn’t even have to accept a trade anywhere if he does not want to.
Also, it’s important to note Kane’s troubling history off the ice.
In 2009, Kane and his cousin pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct after being accused of beating up a cab driver.
Also, the 34-year-old was under investigation after being accused of rape in Buffalo, New York but was not charged.
Kane only has months left on his current deal with the Blackhawks and he could accept a trade to go play for a Stanley Cup contender.
As expected the Blackhawks are having an abysmal season, sitting last in the Central Division with just 16 points.
Expect the Blackhawks to approach not only Kane but its other franchise cornerstone Jonathan Toews about trades as we get closer to the deadline.
As always, the Rangers will be an attractive draw under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden.
But it’s still early in the season and as of right now the Rangers are sitting out of a playoff position.
If that continues, then it’s less likely that the team would risk it and make a big deal for Kane.
So far on the season, Kane has 16 points (3 goals 13 assists) in 20 games.
