What Could Be Next For NHL UFA Patrick Kane?
Patrick Kane is the most experienced, talented UFA forward left in NHL free agency.
Kane, 37, spent the last two seasons with the Detroit Red Wings, posting 37 goals and 116 points in 139 games combined. With 16 goals in 67 games this past season, Kane missed out on extending his 20-goal-season streak to five years.
But if he is leaving Detroit – and if he were staying in Motown, the re-signing would've happened already – Kane has some solid options for his next employer, particularly with teams in the Atlantic Division.
Some reporters, such as David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period and TSN's Chris Johnston, have discussed whether or not the Toronto Maple Leafs would be a fit.
Future Hall Of Famer Patrick Kane Remains Unsigned
Patrick Kane, who has played the last two and a half seasons with the Detroit Red Wings, remains unsigned and available on the free agent market.
The Red Wings do have about $19.6 million in cap space, so if Kane wants to go to the highest bidder, it could be Detroit. But it's starting to feel like Kane doesn't want to settle for Detroit.
And why would Kane want to hitch his wagon to a Wings team that will likely take a step back when they trade captain Dylan Larkin? Detroit could prove to be the worst team in the Atlantic this year, and the 37-year-old Kane doesn't have long to go before he'll be retired. If he wants to join the most competitive team that wants him without moving too far, the Sabres or Maple Leafs make a lot of sense for Kane.
He may be an NHL senior citizen, but Kane still has something to offer. As a decorated, three-time Stanley Cup champion, he's earned the respect of his peers, and he's going to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer. Kane may have just enough left to write a storybook ending to a dazzling, unforgettable hockey career.
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This story was originally published July 14, 2026 at 9:52 AM.