New York Rangers overcome obstacles to acquire Patrick Kane

New York Rangers overcome obstacles to acquire Patrick Kane from Chicago Blackhawks

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Patrick Kane has been officially traded from the Chicago Blackhawks to the New York Rangers, in exchange for two draft picks and a minor-league defenseman.

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The Rangers cleared salary cap space to accommodate Kane's contract, with Chicago and Arizona retaining 50% of his salary.

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Arizona received a third-round pick from the Rangers for facilitating the deal, while Chicago acquired Finnish defenseman Vili Saarijarvi from Arizona to complete the trade.

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Kane, a three-time Stanley Cup champion, will make his debut for the Rangers on Thursday against Ottawa.

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Kane forced Chicago's hand to trade him to his preferred destination, significantly lowering the potential return for the Blackhawks.

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Dealing away Kane represents Chicago's official turn away from its championship era as they rebuild through the draft with new management and coaching staff.

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The Rangers initially preferred Vladimir Tarasenko of the Blues over Kane, but Kane's desire to join the Rangers ultimately sealed the deal.

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Multiple teams, including the Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars, and Edmonton Oilers, pursued Kane, but he pushed behind the scenes for the Rangers.

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Kane was emotional about leaving Chicago, but felt that joining the Rangers put him in the best position to immediately win another Stanley Cup.

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Kane thanked the Blackhawks organization, his teammates, and the fans for their support over the past 16 years, but stated that Chicago would always be home.

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