Do the Rangers Need Patrick Kane to Win a Cup? Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MTk0Nzg3ODUwODQyMDIzNDQ4/usatsi_19668018.jpg] Uncertainty over Patrick Kane's future in Chicago continues to dominate the Blackhawks' rumor mill. While his representatives are expected to meet with management in January to discuss that issue, it hasn't stopped pundits from suggesting potential trade destinations for the 34-year-old winger. Sportsnet's Ryan Dixon [https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/five-potential-trade-destinations-for-pending-ufa-patrick-kane/] had the New York Rangers and Boston Bruins atop his list of possible trade partners, followed by the Pittsburgh Penguins, Carolina Hurricanes and New York Islanders. The Athletic's Sean Gentille and Hailey Salvian [https://theathletic.com/4029282/2022/12/27/nhl-predictions-new-stanley-cup-favorite/] both consider the Rangers as the most logical choice, while Jesse Granger didn't rule out the Colorado Avalanche getting into the bidding. Kane's status will keep featuring prominently in media trade conjecture leading up to the March 3 trade deadline. However, there are other Blackhawks who could also be on the move by deadline day. NBC Sports Chicago's Charlie Roumeliotis [https://www.nbcsports.com/chicago/blackhawks/15-thoughts-about-blackhawks-going-christmas-break] observed Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews is on pace to score 30 goals for just the fourth time in his career. Like Kane, the 34-year-old center is slated to become an unrestricted free agent in July and carries a $10.5-million cap hit plus a full no-movement clause. Nevertheless, Roumeliotis suggested the Avalanche or Winnipeg Jets could use Toews as a second or third-line center. Roumeliotis also pointed out that Max Domi is playing well this season. The versatile 27-year-old forward is among the Blackhawks' leading scorers with 23 points in 32 games and has a solid faceoff win percentage (56.1). He's also UFA-eligible in July. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman [https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/32-thoughts-can-nhl-nhlpa-get-out-of-their-comfort-zones/] recently mentioned the Ottawa Senators may have looked at Seth Jones in their hunt for a right-shot defenseman. However, he believes that was merely due diligence on their part.
