Detroit Red Wings star Patrick Kane has put together a historic career up to this point.
In almost 20 full seasons, the future Hall of Famer has constructed quite a remarkable resume. This includes three Stanley Cups, a Conn Smythe Trophy, one MVP, one Art Ross, a nine-time All Star, and 500 career goals and counting. One would assume that Kane doesn’t have much to play for at this point.
There’s one record, however, that Kane is approaching that has a special meaning for him. Heading into Wednesday night’s games, “Showtime,” as he’s called, is just four points away from the most points by a US-born player in National Hockey League History. Hall of Famer Mike Modano has the record with 1,374 points (561 goals, 813 assists) in 1,499 games. Kane currently is at 1,371 points (500 goals, 871 assists) in 1,335 games.
Patrick Kane Can Cement USA Hockey Legacy
It’s not a matter of if, but when Kane breaks the record.
In addition to playing for his country in the Olympics twice (2010 and 2014), breaking this record would have a lasting USA hockey impact. He would not only retire as an NHL-great, but arguably the greatest US-born hockey player ever. This would be the final piece for Kane to complete a remarkable individual career.
He’s already had a historic season, recently scoring his 500th career goal just over a week ago. He became the 50th player (and just the 5th US-born player) in NHL history to reach that plateau. Adding a points record for USA players would make this season that much more special for number 88. What makes the accomplishment even more spectacular is that he’s doing all of this while being a major contributor to a rising Red Wings team.
The Impact of Kane’s Play This Season
In their centennial season, “Hockeytown” is enjoying its team looking like its old self again.
They are currently tied for first place in the Atlantic and are second in the Eastern Conference. This is with a 30-16-4 record and 64 points. They are in a good spot to make the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in a decade.
One reason for that is the play of Kane overall. Despite just eight goals, Kane has produced 28 points and continues to be a major threat offensively despite his age. Additionally, his presence in the locker room is helping the young stars like Alex DeBrincat, Lucas Raymond, Dylan Larkin, and Moritz Seider blossom. It’s been nothing but a perfect match for the Red Wings and Kane.
Kane’s breaking of the record will be a phenomenal accomplishment, not just for Patrick himself, but for the Red Wings, the NHL, and USA Hockey as a whole. The Rochester, Buffalo native will soon truly become the greatest scorer and player in American hockey history.
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