Is Patrick Kane Down to 3 Teams?

It appears that Patrick Kane may return to hockey sooner rather than later. As heard on 32 Thoughts the Podcast this morning, Sportsnet reporter and NHL insider Elliotte Friedman discussed where things were at with Kane and his decision timeline. (You can find out more at www.sportsnet.ca)

While nothing seemed imminent, it did appear that one thing was certain: That the Kane camp was keeping a lid on all dealings. It also appears that it may come down to the Detroit Red Wings, Florida Panthers, and Dallas Stars.

While these 3 teams are not at all surprising given recent rumors, it is important to note that they all offer much different options for Patrick Kane. For one Florida and Dallas look to be legitimate Stanley Cup contenders. Detroit, while improved, is likely the long term play if Kane decides to call Motor City home.

Florida, a no state income tax state, just went to the Cup Final (lost to Vegas) and would present a veteran lineup in which there is a clear need for a top 6 forward. Would they consider their two stars Reinhart and Tkachuk more flexible to move to the left while sliding down Rodrigues to a third line role? Whichever way you look at it though, Florida has outstanding centers with finishing wings and one of the leagues best defensive cores. This could be a true play for another ring if Kane picks south Florida.

Detroit, as mentioned in my prior article, would represent a comfortable fit as well as a competitive roster. It would pair him back with Alex DeBrincat and potentially a good two way center in Dylan Larkin. Geographically it could be a good in between with travel between Chicago and Buffalo. The Red Wings could also offer more term and AAV than the other two options.

In the pre-season I made my prediction thread and settled on the Dallas Stars as a team that could win it all. As it stands right now, their captain Jamie Benn is on the third line. Tha's a deep team with one of the better and more balanced rosters in hockey. Patrick Kane would have a very good chance to win it all if he joined the Stars.

These are 3 good (but quite different) options if these are indeed the only teams he is considering. The future Hall of Fame RW will one day have his #88 raised to the United Center rafters, until then we wait to see how "strange" he will look in his next jersey.