One of the best players in NHL history to be born in the United States has found a new home after months of waiting and conjecture.
Numerous sources announced on Tuesday morning that Patrick Kane, an unrestricted free agent, is joining the Detroit Red Wings.
The agreement is thought to be for $2.75 million and will last for one year.
Since the New Jersey Devils defeated the New York Rangers in the Metropolitan Division semifinal in April of last year, Kane has not participated in a game. After the season, the 35-year-old decided to undergo hip resurfacing surgery to fix a bothersome issue that had been bothering him all 2022–2023 season.
The Florida Panthers, a division opponent, were among the several teams vying for the former Chicago Blackhawk, including the Red Wings.
Kane has 1,237 points in 1,180 regular-season games, which is second most points of any player born in the United States. Mike Modano, the Hall of Famer, finished his career with 1,374 points in 1,499 games, therefore he is only behind him.
The contract’s specifics have not yet been disclosed.
The three-time Stanley Cup champion joins former Blackhawks teammate Alex DeBrincat, who is fitting in just fine with his hometown team, with Debrincat averaging a point a game through 20 contests.
Kane will be a welcomed addition to the Wings power play. The Red Wings are currently ninth in the league, operating at 22.4% with the man advantage. David Perron and Dylan Larkin are tied with four goals on the PP. Putting Kane can be placed on the right side of a unit including Debrincat, Larkin, Perron and Moritz Seider, a fivesome that will certainly strike fear in opposing penalty killers.
There have been previous instances of well-known Blackhawks relocating to the Motor City. After being traded to the Wings in 1999, veteran captain Chris Chelios went on to raise Lord Stanley three years later. Hockeytown supporters are hopeful that Kane can have a comparable effect on a team that features young players.
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