After his New York Rangers were eliminated from the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs, All-Star winger Patrick Kane is now turning his focus to his upcoming free agency. Kane told reporters on Wednesday that he is already thinking about a potential destination for the 2023-24 season while also revealing that a reunion with the Chicago Blackhawks is unlikely.
According to Kane, returning to Chicago, where he spent 15 years before being traded to the Rangers in February, doesn’t seem like an option for him.
“I haven’t really thought about that, to be honest with you,” Kane said when asked about a potential reunion. “They’re rebuilding, and so that’s really never crossed my mind.”
Kane is much more open to returning to the Rangers, where he had an “amazing experience.” The 34-year-old Kane played 19 games with the New York team in the regular season and contributed five goals and seven assists. He also had six points in seven postseason games.
“I would love to be back,” Kane added. “I feel like with this team and this opportunity; I would love that chance.”
It remains to be seen whether Kane gets his wish. After another disappointing playoffs exit, the Rangers are expected to make some big changes in their organization and might decide that keeping an expensive veteran on their roster isn’t the best long-term strategy.
Patrick Kane played 1,161 games with the Blackhawks and is considered a franchise legend. He helped the franchise win three Stanley Cups while earning a number of individual honors, including nine All-Star appearances and the Hart Memorial Trophy.
