Winnipeg Jets Should Consider Trading Evander Kane

The rumor of the Winnipeg Jets trading Evander Kane has been surfacing for years. Since the team moved back up north, they have underachieved. Kane is one of the only players who has played well. Now, the team is playing well. They are currently fourth in the Central Division, quite possibly the best division in the NHL. Why should the Jets consider the market for Kane now of all times?

Teams are always looking for legit scorers on team-friendly contracts. A 23-year-old who already has over 200 points in his career is worth more than the $5.25 million he is getting. He hasn’t even hit his prime yet, but he already is into his second pro contract. A team might be willing to give up a lot to get Kane.

Kane is the perfect candidate for a player who needs a change of scenery. He has been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons in Winnipeg. Whether it is a question about his focus and drive or it’s a tweet that has him holding a stack of money during a lockout, he never is talked about for the right reasons. If he was sent to a team with a good veteran presence and true leadership, he would thrive.

In return, the Jets could look to go in two different directions with this trade. They could try to get some players to bolster their power play. They are currently ranked 28th in the league with the man advantage. This team needs someone who can score in these situations.

They could also look to get an upgrade in goal. Ondrej Pavelec is having the best season of his career, but can that last? If there is an option to gain a good goalie from someone who wants a star forward, the deal should be made.

Kane is a great player, and the Jets should not look to give him away. They should, however, test the waters to see what they could get for him. If the deal is right, then make the move. They can survive without Kane, but at the same time he can also bring a lot to the table for the Jets. Like everything in sports, it all has to do with the situation that is presented to Jets’ GM Kevin Cheveldayoff.

Nick Villano is the New Jersey Devils writer for Rant Sports. He also adds to the site’s NBA, MLB and NFL content. You can follow him on Twitter or add him to your Google circle.