Patrick Kane Could Soon Decide Where He'll Play This Season

The talk on Patrick Kane in the NHL rumor mill picked up significantly this week as the free agent reportedly draws nearer to a decision on where to sign.

Trying to figure out which team Patrick Kane might sign with has generated months of speculation in the NHL rumor mill. However, the guessing game could soon draw to a close.

ESPN.com's Greg Wyshynski reported Kane's agent Pat Brisson indicated his client started meeting with up to eight potential suitors this week. TSN's Darren Dreger said the Kane camp hopes to cut that list down by this weekend and could reach a decision by early next week.

That's generated more conjecture over where Kane might land. Wyshynski noted the Buffalo Sabres and Florida Panthers have been in touch with the 34-year-old winger since the summer while the Detroit Red Wings are also believed to be on his radar. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman said the Panthers' Bill Zito has been among the most aggressive GMs regarding Kane.

The New York Rangers (Kane's former club) was also thought to be a suitor, but the New York Post's Larry Brooks reported they're not pursuing the three-time Stanley Cup champion. In addition to the Panthers, Sabres and Red Wings, Brooks said the Dallas Stars, Tampa Bay Lightning and Toronto Maple Leafs could be among the interested parties.

Speaking of the Leafs, NHL analyst John Shannon reported hearing Kane met with them on Tuesday. He also mentioned the Carolina Hurricanes could get into the bidding.

The Red Wings and Sabres have the salary cap space to sign Kane to a one-year contract worth around $5 million. He's have to accept much less from the others, but those clubs can offer him an opportunity to play for a winner this season.

Stay tuned.