Patrick Kane Ready to Reclaim Role As Captain America

Earlier today, Blackhawks’ F Patrick Kane was named the captain of Team USA for the 2019 IIHF Men’s World Championship.

This will be Kane’s 2nd consecutive season playing the role of Captain America.

Patrick Kane seems to be really excited to get back on the ice and represent his country, and with good reason. He had a ton of success in his first go-around as captain of Team USA in the 2018 IIHF Men’s World Championship.

In 10 games, he racked up 20 points (8G, 12A) with a -2 ± rating. In addition to the offensive explosion, Kane also brought home an MVP award and a bronze medal.

In last year’s tournament, Kane played alongside a few current teammates and former teammates: Alex DeBrincat, Connor Murphy, Scott Darling, and Jordan Oesterle. Blackhawks’ assistant coach, Don Granato, was also a part of last year’s coaching staff.

This year, the coaching staff will see a few newcomers. Jeff Blashill returns as Head Coach for the 3rd straight year and Dan Bylsma returns for the 2nd straight year as an assistant coach. John Hynes and Kevin Reiter join Team USA as first-time assistant coaches.

Team USA has not announced its team roster yet. Although a couple of Patrick Kane’s teammates, Alex DeBrincat and Brandon Saad, both received invites.

Neither DeBrincat nor Saad have confirmed yet, but I believe playing for Team USA in the 2019 IIHF Men’s World Championship would be highly beneficial. They will be able to stay sharp, mentally and physically, while also enhancing their chemistry. Let’s see if Patrick Kane can bring home another MVP award with a gold medal this time.