Free agent star forward Patrick Kane is expected be looking at a new contract in the NHL this month after rehabbing from hip resurfacing surgery he underwent in June, and it sounds like a move is in motions.
According to insider Pierre LeBrun for The Athletic, Kane has started talking to NHL teams and is looking at potential fits around the league with most teams with more than 12 games under their belts. I bet he wants to feel out which teams will be a top contender, another chance at a fourth championship before heading towards retirement.
“We’re starting to speak with teams about the opportunities, talking to coaches and GMs,” his agent Pat Brisson told The Athletic on Tuesday. “It’s kind of like the interview period we used to have for July 1. That’s what we’re starting to do here.”
Brisson revealed that Kane is looking to limit the field to five or six clubs, though there isn’t a timeline to get a deal done.
“No rush. We’re feeling things out,’’ Brisson said. “We’re managing it as we get through it.”
The Toronto Maple Leafs, Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings, Carolina Hurricanes, Florida Panthers and New York Rangers have been linked to Kane since this summer, and recently the Dallas Stars were added to the mix.
While any team would be lucky to add Kane to its roster, there is the question of cap room and what the top forward is seeking as salary as a free agent. I get that every club would want to add the veteran presence and leadership but let’s see what really makes sense for cap spaces and for the veteran forward.
Kane is getting close to be medically cleared after a successful surgery and recovery, now which team will come out on top and sign the free agent for the remainder of the 2023-24 season.
“From a medical standpoint, he’s looking good,” Brisson said. “He’s feeling good. He’s getting closer and closer.”
And fans are so ready for it.
Recommended articles:
