WASHINGTON (AP) — The New York Rangers have begun the machinations necessary if a trade for Patrick Kane were to materialize.
They traded winger Vitali Kravtsov to the Vancouver Canucks and put forward Jake Leschyshyn on waivers on Saturday. That could clear the cap space to get Kane from Chicago.
The Blackhawks are holding Kane out of their game at San Jose in preparation for a trade.
New York received minor leaguer William Lockwood and a 2026 seventh-round draft pick for Kravtsov in what's essentially a salary dump. More will come off the cap Sunday when Leschyshyn is either claimed by another team or clears waivers and is sent to the minors.
An injury to defenseman Ryan Lindgren during the Rangers' game at Washington also could make room. Lindgren took a hard hit into the boards with his left shoulder first and did not return.
If Lindgren is expected to be out for more than 10 games and 24 days, he could be placed on long-term injured reserve.
___
Follow AP Hockey Writer Stephen Whyno on Twitter at https://twitter.com/SWhyno
