On Thursday, the Rangers made a big move three weeks ahead of the trade deadline, acquiring forward Vladimir Tarasenko and defenseman Niko Mikkola from the Blues. Tarasenko, a six-time 30-goal scorer, fills a need as a scoring right wing for New York.
The move most likely takes the Rangers out of the running for a few big name forwards. Among them is Patrick Kane, the veteran Blackhawks winger who is set to hit free agency at the end of the year.
It is no secret that Kane, who has a no movement clause, could be available as Chicago is one of the worst teams in the league. It appears that Kane was eyeing the Rangers as a destination, as he expressed disappointment over the Tarasenko deal.
