Mar 22, 2025; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Detroit Red Wings right wing Patrick Kane (88) warms up before a game against the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena. (Stephen R. Sylvanie, Imagn Images)Amidst the palace intrigue of an apparent rift between general manager Steve Yzerman and captain Dylan Larkin (ostensibly rooted in a difference of opinion over the team's trade deadline strategy), there was some positive to come from Yzerman and coach Todd McLellan's end-of-year presser, namely affirmation of mutual interest between the club and Patrick Kane in a return.
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Kane laid the foundation for optimism on this front in his end-of-year remarks, noting his appreciation for his time in Detroit, interest in continuing, and his son (Patrick Kane III)'s affinity for the Red Wings.
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When asked about Kane's pending unrestricted free agency, "We had a brief discussion in our meeting that we would preferably try to get some things in place if we can early. If not, we'll figure something out down the road, but there's strong mutual interest from both parties. Or, at least, I should speak for myself. I know Patrick had suggested it in his time up here with the media as well. He's played well for us, played an important role for us, and he's really a very professional guy in his approach and his attitude, and he's a good asset for us." When asked for follow-up, Yzerman added that he is "optimistic" about getting a deal done.
As you may recall, last summer, the Red Wings and Kane looked to be on the brink of going their separate ways before agreeing to a new deal on the eve of the free agent period opening. This year, it sounds as though both parties aspire to lock that deal in place before that point.
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