NHL Rumors: Colorado Avalanche Interested in Patrick Kane

According to David Pagnotta of Fourth Period, the Colorado Avalanche are one of the teams who have contacted the Chicago Blackhawks about the availability of forward Patrick Kane.

(Sorry in advance for the caps, but they're necessary)

THE AVS INQUIRED ABOUT PATRICK KANE!! WHAT?!?!@TheFourthPeriod | #NHLNow pic.twitter.com/tjLDABR3CM

— NHL Network (@NHLNetwork) March 5, 2022

Kane hasn't been asked to waive his no-movement clause at this point and a deal does seem quite unlikely to happen in-season, however the Blackhawks have made it known to other teams they are willing to listen on just about anyone and will keep an open mind. Chicago is entering a full rebuild and what could be happening here is Avalanche general manager Joe Sakic planting the seed with the Blackhawks should they be willing to move Kane at the entry draft this summer or before the start of next season.

Kane is 33 years old and signed through next season at $10.5 million. So far in 52 games he's recorded 56 points and would look scary good playing alongside the likes of Nathan MacKinnon and company. Colorado has $26.4 million in cap space next season and if Kane does end up getting moved expectation is Chicago may be willing to retain some of his salary, which would of course drive up the price tag. 

Along with Colorado, the New York Rangers, Boston Bruins, and Washington Capitals are all teams to watch. Especially the Rangers, they have been linked to Kane's name in the past and would love to reunite him with his favorite teammate of all-time in Artemi Panarin. The two were unstoppable at times with the Blackhawks and could get up to their old tricks on Broadway.

For now, Kane remains in the windy city and it's not until this summer where the crucial conversations will take place. If he wants to stay and finish his career as a Blackhawk, expect to see him sign an extension next offseason once he's eligible. If he isn't open to participating in a full rebuild, look for the bidding war to begin in what could be one of the biggest trades in recent memory.

Photo credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports