Leafs and Hawks talk Patrick Kane trade

We’ve been hearing about Patrick Kane’s future all summer long and though nothing has yet to happen when it comes to the star forward, chatter keeps heating up.

The question remains: does Kane want to be part of the rebuild in Chicago? These past months have brought forth significant changes as Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson pulled off two large trades on the draft floor in Montreal. First up, Davidson traded star forward Alex DeBrincat to the Ottawa Senators in exchange for the 7th overall pick, a 2nd round and a 3rd pick. Then Davidson shipped out former 3rd overall pick Kirby Dach to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for the 13th overall pick and another 2nd round pick. In essence, the Blackhawks loaded up on draft picks by shipping out DeBrincat and Dach.

Kane might want out, though if a trade takes place, many insiders believe it could be closer to the trade deadline when contenders look to add on veteran presence and leadership.

However, the Leafs Daily News have recently reported that Toronto GM Kyle Dubas and Davidson have had “brief” discussions surrounding Kane.

In the past weeks, Kane has been linked to another Canadian team in the Edmonton Oilers, but the focus appears to shift towards the Maple Leafs, who would need to part with significant pieces to make room for Kane.

Kane’s no-movement clause also complicates things. While there’s no indication he’s agreed to waive it, he’ll likely do so for only a small number of teams. Would Toronto be on his list?

It’d be understandable if Kane looks to join a contender as a playoff rental before the 2023 trade deadline. It could depend on how Toronto is doing at that time and if they can for once win a first-round series…

Do you see Kane in a Maple Leafs’ uniform before the end of his NHL career?