Maurice noted this week that Kane is basically a model forward for the Jets system - fast, aggressive and physical to take away time and space, disrupt the opponent's zone exits and transition. A team that is thriving on a "system" doesn't need to assess players solely on their individual statistics, because how a player is performing is part of a chain reaction. When Kane uses his speed to force an opposing defenseman to make a bad pass or a pass where he doesn't want to, that makes our team defense more effective. When he uses his speed to create back pressure, he helps the D keep tight gaps and perform better. When he uses his speed to create zone entries, he helps with possession. When he forces turnovers on the forecheck, he creates more chances for the team.
I think that Maurice understands the concept of a system and players fitting the system. When he first arrived and was asked about the team, he didn't talk about individual players and their specific skillsets, he talked about the fact that his impression was a bunch of very big, very fast players that could create a lot of havoc.
The Jets will be reluctant to trade Kane for these reasons.
