Austin Konenski
The Detroit Red Wings and Patrick Kane were unable to agree on a new contract ahead of NHL free agency. It has been one week since NHL free agency opened, and Kane is still unsigned. Is that a good sign for the Red Wings? According to a new report, Detroit could be in the mix for the NHL legend.
Kane hasn’t fully closed the door on the Red Wings during his NHL free agency process, as reported by The Athletic’s Chris Johnston on the Nielson Show. This comes after speculation that Kane wouldn’t return after the Red Wings signed Viktor Arvidsson. Kane has spent the last three seasons in Detroit and loves the organization, but it may not fit his timeline.
So, what if the 37-year-old forward does leave the Red Wings? Kane would have several organizations that make sense next season.
Potential free agent landing spots for Patrick Kane outside of Detroit Red Wings
The Red Wings would still be a great landing spot for Kane, as the team would miss his veteran presence and offensive skills. However, there is drama surrounding the team with Dylan Larkin, and it could push Kane into a more win-now situation. If so, several teams would fit that description.
The Buffalo Sabres are the top landing spot for Kane outside of the Red Wings. The three-time Stanley Cup champion is from Buffalo, New York, so this would be a homecoming for him. After all, Kane’s biggest career achievement could be bringing the Sabres to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers could be an intriguing destination. If Kane wants to win a fourth Stanley Cup, joining Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl wouldn’t be a bad place to start. Kane has never played for a Canadian team in his 19-year career, so it would be a drastic change of scenery.
Finally, what about the Chicago Blackhawks? Kane spent the first 16 years of his career in Chicago. The Blackhawks aren’t a Stanley Cup contender, but it would represent a full circle moment and an opportunity to close out his career with his original team. Although it would likely come at the cost of winning another Stanley Cup.
No matter what, Kane has plenty of options in NHL free agency. Detroit may not be the landing spot, but it still remains a possibility.
Read More: NHL Insider Reveals Dylan Larkin’s Most Likely Trade Destination
