Fans and media unpleased with Kane and Panarin �forcing' their connection

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Joshua Deeds
April 29, 2023 (0:29)

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During his time in Chicago, Patrick Kane was fortunate to have excellent linemates, including Artem Anisimov. However, Anisimov's current position in the NHL is that of a journeyman.

Meanwhile, Kane's former and current linemate, Artemi Panarin, is trying to rekindle the chemistry he once shared with Kane. The big question now is whether or not this attempt will ultimately succeed.

Rangers' Artemi Panarin looks to be forcing connection with Patrick Kane

«They're trying to force the play into the middle of the ice too much and there are too many turnovers,» head coach Gerard Gallant said of Panarin and Kane after the Rangers' 4-2 loss. «There's chemistry there, but they've got to make sure we're making strong plays. There are too many times we're trying for that long pass, east-west in the offensive zone. They know our players, too. They're going to pick that off and then they're going the other way.

At a crucial time when the team needs them to work together, it has been six years since these two players last played together. During this time, both players have developed their skills, so it may take some time for them to synchronize their playing styles.

However, it is now April, and during the playoffs, the best support is necessary to win. As a result, Gallant has moved Panarin to the third line with Chytil and Kakko, while keeping Kane with Trocheck and Lafreniere.

With the New Jersey Devils taking over the series yesterday, it is unclear who benefited more from the trade.

Although it appears that Kane was traded for less than he was worth, the Rangers are not performing exceptionally well either. Moreover, it appears that old loyalties die hard, especially when it comes to old teammates playing in the playoffs.