There are increasing indications that a Patrick Kane trade could happen soon. The talented forward is expected to inform the Chicago Blackhawks in the coming days that he is willing to be traded, and has even indicated to which team he would like to go.
Initially, it was reported that Kane would provide the Blackhawks with a list of preferred teams, allowing the organization to seek out the best possible trade deal. However, as time passed, that list narrowed down to just two teams: the New York Rangers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. With both teams having made significant deadline acquisitions in Vladimir Tarasenko and Ryan O'Reilly respectively, Kane's preferred destination may have changed.
According to Pierre LeBrun, if Kane decides to be traded, he will only give the Blackhawks the name of one team to talk to initially. If that doesn't work out, he may consider providing another team, but only one at a time. This creates a challenging situation for the Blackhawks, as they will have very little leverage in the trade negotiations. The chosen team will be aware that they have no competition and may lowball their offer.
This development puts the Blackhawks in a tough spot, as they risk not getting the return they need for such a talented player. Kane's insistence on being traded to a specific team could also result in him staying put in Chicago.
