35-year-old forward excited to help club build on momentum made during 2023-24 season
The Detroit Red Wings are gearing up for the 2024-25 season with a mix of new faces and a crucial veteran presence remaining in Patrick Kane.
On June 30, the team announced the re-signing of Patrick Kane to a one-year contract, just before he would have become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. Kane expressed his strong desire to stay in Detroit, citing his comfort and positive experience with the team.
“For me, my heart was set on coming to Detroit and being back in Detroit,” Kane said during a Zoom call with the media. “I thought it was a good fit last year. Love the team. We were really comfortable living there.”
BECAUSE OF COURSE HE DID! 🤩
In his return to Chicago, Patrick Kane (@88PKane) nets the @Energizer overtime winner! pic.twitter.com/0sazlTuJp5
— NHL (@NHL) February 26, 2024
Steve Yzerman, the Red Wings’ Executive Vice President and General Manager, emphasized his satisfaction with the contract agreement, highlighting its flexibility regarding salary cap management.
“We were able to do a contract that has some bonuses in it that allows us some flexibility with our salary cap,” Yzerman explained. “To either use it this year or push it into next year depending on how this season goes.”
Kane made a significant impact during the 2023-24 season, registering 47 points (20 goals, 27 assists) in 50 games following his recovery from hip resurfacing surgery.
“I had a lot of opportunity to play in some good situations, whether it was power play or top-six minutes,” Kane reflected on his first season in Detroit. “Just want to take it to the next level next year.”
Known for his clutch performances, Kane led the Red Wings with seven game-winning goals last season, including three in overtime.
Reflecting on his integration into the team and the warm reception from Red Wings fans, Kane expressed gratitude and highlighted the significance of his off-ice comfort in Detroit.
“I love the fans,” Kane remarked. “I thought the fans really embraced me too. You never really know what to expect, especially me being in Chicago for so long and coming to Detroit. I know that’s a huge rivalry, but just the embrace of the fans was incredible.”
Having previously spent time in the Detroit area during his youth hockey days and with the U.S. National Team Development Program, Kane felt a familiar connection to the city and its surroundings.
“I think the suburbs in Detroit are unbelievable,” Kane noted. “I lived there when I was 14 but when I came back, I didn’t realize how nice they were and what a great spot it is to live and raise a family.”
Looking ahead, Kane emphasized his health and readiness for the upcoming season, expressing satisfaction with his physical condition following his surgery and subsequent rehabilitation.
“I feel really good,” Kane affirmed. “Really happy with how I’m feeling with my body, the hip becoming part of my body now.”
With Kane’s veteran presence secured, the Red Wings are poised to blend experience with their incoming talent for the challenges of the new season.
