Hayes happy to help in Cup quest

In a final effort to boost their lineup ahead of Monday’s 2 p.m. NHL trade deadline, the Winnipeg Jets acquired Kevin Hayes from the New York Rangers in a deal that sent a player and picks the other way.

Sitting atop the Central Divisions standings, the Jets (37-21-4) were pegged as major buyers heading into the day. Winnipeg had been reported for weeks to be looking to add another centreman, a position considered to be the missing piece for another long playoff run.

“I know they gave up a lot for me and I just want to help them out," Hayes, 26, said in a conference call from New York. "Everyone knows how good they are and the type of players that they have on their team. I’m excited to get…