An instant reaction to Patrick Kane's introductory press conference as a Detroit Red Wing
This afternoon, both Steve Yzerman and Patrick Kane met with the media over Zoom in conjunction with the latter's signing with the Detroit Red Wings becoming official. After off-season hip surgery last June, Kane ended the sweepstakes surrounding his free agency yesterday by choosing Detroit.
To some it was unlikely, given the old Original Six and Norris Division rivalry between Detroit and the Chicago Blackhawks (where Kane earned his reputation), but Kane downplayed that rivalry in meeting with the press, instead focusing on his own ties to the state of Michigan via the Honeybaked AAA team and U.S. National Team Development Program, as well as his excitement at playing in a hockey-mad market like Detroit.
There are clear uncertainties around the move: A 35-year-old coming off major surgery cannot be considered a guarantee under any circumstances. Nonetheless, there is an undeniable excitement associated with the signing of a player of Kane's pedigree—three Stanley Cups, a Conn Smythe, a Hart, and an Art Ross. After all, Kane has a credible case to being the greatest American player ever.
In the above video, I chatted briefly with Michael Traikos—managing editor of The Hockey News' team sites—about Kane's signing, today's press availabilities, and the Red Wings' status as potential Cup contenders.
Be on the lookout for continued coverage of Kane's introduction right here at THN Detroit as the week progresses.