It’s nearing mid-November, and we’re starting to see a little more smoke around the potential return of former Blackhawks’ star Patrick Kane.
In his “” column on Thursday morning, Elliotte Friedman said: “Sounds like there are about eight teams somewhat seriously looking at Patrick Kane. As he culls the herd, he’s going to ask: Where do I think I can win?”
To that end, Chris Johnston at shared some deeper details on what he’s hearing about the future of 88. “Exactly what that sweater will look like should be determined in the relatively near future now that Kane and agent Pat Brisson have started the process of speaking directly to those in the running for his services.”
The teams listed by Johnston as being in the mix for Kane are mostly those we’ve heard previously, with one new (well, new to this round of the conversation but not new to Kane rumors) team:
We’ve heard about the Rangers, Red Wings and Sabres previously. Dallas has been floated as well; I’m not sure they’re out, but would need to make some cap gymnastics happen to afford Kane (as would the Leafs and Rangers, frankly). This is the first time in a while the Panthers are named in the mix for Kane and that’s an intriguing fit. They made a run to the Cup Final last season and have the horses to do it again. Will the lack of a state income tax be a nice selling point for Kane there as well?
Again, don’t be upset that the Blackhawks aren’t in the mix. They aren’t bringing him back, even if the obvious appeal of him skating on Connor Bedard‘s right side is there for fans.
