Could Patrick Kane Sign with the Buffalo Sabres?

UFA winger Patrick Kane was born and raised in Buffalo, but if he wants the best chance to win a Stanley Cup, will the hometown factor still bring him to the Sabres?

Patrick Kane remains the biggest name still available in this summer's free-agent market.

Rehabbing from a hip procedure, the 34-year-old winger isn't expected to be ready to return to action until December. By then, his agent has indicated he will field contract offers from potential Stanley Cup contenders.

Stephen Whyno of the Associated Press reported rumors linking Kane to the Buffalo Sabres. After years of rebuilding, they're a team on the rise with a solid core of young talent that could benefit from a player with his Stanley Cup experience.

Kane skating with his hometown team would make a great story, but the Sabres might not be on his radar. His agent indicated he would sign with the club he believes will give him the best chance to win the Stanley Cup. For all their promise, the Sabres aren't yet ready to be considered a Cup contender.

Even if Kane was open to signing with the Sabres, they could have other roster needs to consider by December.

Goaltending remains a big question mark for the Sabres. The trio of Devon Levi, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen and Eric Comrie have a combined 100 games of NHL regular-season play and no playoff appearances. The Sabres could be in the market for a goalie by December if those three fail to play up to expectations.

Blueline depth is another issue. The off-season additions of Erik Johnson and Connor Clifton should take some of the burden off young defense stars Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power. Nevertheless, there could be a need to add another veteran at some point.