The Rangers were forced to call up Ryan Carpenter from the Hartford Wolfpack on Sunday to have the required number of skaters, which took a large chunk of their cap space in the process.
Although Carpenter is expected to be sent back down soon. He and Braden Schneider were not utilized during Sunday's game and the Rangers played with only 16 skaters. This was reportedly due to the Rangers' desire to avoid any injuries that could prevent them from sending both men back down after the game.
According to Rangers insider Larry Brooks, the team may not have enough cap space to make the trade until Wednesday at the earliest, assuming they find a third team to take on 25% of Kane's salary with the Blackhawks retaining 50%. NHL insider Chris Johnston even suggests that the trade could be pushed all the way down to the final hour, with the Rangers hoping to accrue as much cap space as possible before the deadline.
The Rangers' recent move to call up Carpenter and their cautious approach during Sunday's game have shed light on the challenges involved in making this trade happen. It may take more time and involve more complicated negotiations than initially expected.
POLL | ||
Do you think Patrick Kane will re-sign in New York? | ||
Yes | 29 | 52.7 % |
No | 26 | 47.3 % |
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