Patrick Kane’s latest comments got fans wondering about trade plan

There seems to be this clear expectation across the league and amongst fans that Patrick Kane will be moved ahead of the trade deadline in early 2023. However, there was also an expectation that the Chicago Blackhawks were going to suck bad this season… and yet, they have a 4-2-0 in six games so far.

When asked ahead of the Hawks’s contest against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night - which they beat 4-2, unexpectedly  - Kane made some interesting comments when asked about his team’s success, per team insider Ben Pope.

“It’s definitely been a pleasant surprise. But the point we’re at now [is] we have a lot of confidence in this group. There’s a lot of depth. There’s contributions from everyone… A lot of good vibes in here.”

Of course, fans quickly reacted to his comments, now wondering if that meant a trade is more and more ruled out by the star player. It is no secret that, in the past, Kane mentioned the desire to retire as a Blackhawk and end his career in Chicago. Though that does not prevent him from moving to a Cup contender and returning as a free agent before hanging up the skates, this could be a sign that Kane is impressed with new head coach Luke Richardson’s vision and how great of an impact he has of the young prospects on board for the rebuild.

Kane has been linked to several contenders like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers and Buffalo Sabres. It is believed the New York Islanders, Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins and Calgary Flames could also compete for Kane’s services.

According to some reports earlier this season, Kane informed his GM Kyle Davidson that he will NOT accept a trade to the Leafs. But I guess it could depend on where they stand later in the playoff picture.

The reality of a trade when it comes to Kane however remains the same. He carries a $10.5 million cap hit plus a full no-movement clause giving him full control over where he might go.

And in the end, he could simply choose to stay in Chicago because well, good vibes. Who knows?