Well, well. Rangers contacted Chicago about Patrick Sharp
Last week, I wrote that one of the things the Rangers might be missing is a player like Patrick Sharp. Someone who has recent Stanley Cup winning experience that could get them over the top.
Today, Chris Kuc who writes for the Tribune put this out.
Hearing Penguins and Canadiens are teams in hottest pursuit of #Blackhawks‘ Patrick Sharp. Rangers have also made contact.
— Chris Kuc (@ChrisKuc) June 26, 2015
Sharp’s cap hit is heavy at $5.9M and will be on the books for the next two seasons. The asking price the Hawks are looking for is also steep. As per TFP, it’s a 1st rounder, a top 6 forward on an entry level contract and top prospect.
Update: After losing out on the Mike Reilly sweepstakes, Chicago could be now looking for a defenseman.
Right off the bat, the Rangers don’t have a 1st round pick. However, it is possible they could acquire one in the Cam Talbot deal and use that as leverage. As for top 6 forwards on entry level contracts, not many teams would part with that as well as a first rounder for an aging forward. Still, let’s play and see if names like Carl Hagelin (RFA) or J.T. Miller (RFA) raise some interest. When it comes to top prospects, the Rangers would be extremely unwilling to part with Pavel Buchnevich or Brady Skjei. It doesn’t mean that something else can’t be worked out.
Another thing to consider is this, the Blackhawks are asking for the world and it is highly unlikely they will get even two of those pieces. Everyone in the NHL knows the Hawks are up against the cap and HAVE TO TRADE HIM.
Should the Rangers make a play if the price is reasonable? Bottom line is this, the Rangers are lacking top 6 forwards who are right handed shots. Sharp could bring a whole new look to the lineup, especially the power play. The also don’t have his recent proven track record for winning Stanley Cups in their lineup either. 3 Cups in 6 years means he knows a thing or two about getting over the hump.
The plot thickens.
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