Patrick Kane recently said he hasn't thought much about staying with the Detroit Red Wings for another season. He will draw attention if he hits free agency. Patrick Kane [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjA1NzU3NDA1ODkwMzU2NzY1/usatsi_22777642.jpg] Patrick Kane The Detroit Red Wings took a chance on Patrick Kane last November by signing him to a one-year, $2.75-million contract. The 35-year-old winger was coming off a hip resurfacing procedure last June with no guarantee he'd regain his scoring form. It was a risk worth taking as Kane rewarded the Red Wings entered this week with 20 goals and 46 points in 48 games. However, his recent comments about his future suggested it could lie beyond the Motor City. Kane told reporters he hadn't thought much about it, saying he's focused on helping the Wings clinch a playoff berth. The Hockey News Detroit's Connor Earegood believes [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings/latest-news/what-do-patrick-kanes-comments-mean-about-his-future-in-detroit] the 35-year-old veteran winger's production this season suggests he can fetch more millions than he's currently making. Earegood noted the Wings must also re-sign defenseman Moritz Seider and winger Lucas Raymond. Both are completing their entry-level contracts and are in line for significant raises, given their value as core players. Wings GM Steve Yzerman must also address his roster weaknesses [https://thehockeynews.com/news/what-changes-could-the-detroit-red-wings-see-if-they-miss-the-playoffs]. Shaky goaltending and poor defensive play contributed to a March swoon that jeopardized their playoff hopes. Earegood thinks the Red Wings want to sign Kane because his production would be difficult to replace [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings/latest-news/thn-mailbag-retaining-patrick-kane-prospect-musings-and-the-future-of-the-goalie-room]. However, the cost could be too expensive unless Yzerman can free up additional cap space. Detroit Hockey Now's Bob Duff believes [https://detroithockeynow.com/2024/04/11/kane-could-be-one-and-done-with-red-wings/] Kane's performance this season will make it difficult for Yzerman to re-sign him. He will draw lots of attention if he becomes a UFA on July 1. Earegood pointed out Kane has deep roots in his hometown of Buffalo and wondered if he might join the Sabres. Boston Hockey Now's Jimmy Murphy noted the Bruins attempted to sign [https://bostonhockeynow.com/2024/04/11/boston-bruins-could-the-bruins-sign-a-sure-shot-hall-of-famer-this-summer/] Kane last summer. He speculated they might try again if unable to re-sign pending UFA winger Jake DeBrusk.
