(104.3 The Score) The Blackhawks are bringing a cornerstone of their storied past into their promise of the present, signing future Hall of Fame forward Patrick Kane to a two-year deal, the team announced Thursday. The contract comes with an $8-million cap hit.
Kane, 37, was considering offers from the Blackhawks and the Sabres, which would've returned him to his hometown of Buffalo. Ultimately, Kane selected to play again in Chicago, his hockey home of 16 years.
“Day in and day out for 16 seasons, Patrick captivated the city of Chicago with his dazzling skill, creating some of the most memorable moments in Blackhawks history as he helped bring our storied franchise back to the pinnacle of our sport,” Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said in a statement. “He’s shown on countless occasions that he knows what it takes to win at the highest levels, and we couldn’t be prouder for Patrick to once again call the United Center home and continue to shine in Chicago’s brightest lights.”
The No. 1 overall pick to the Blackhawks in 2007, Kane became arguably the greatest player in franchise history. He was part of three Stanley Cup championships in Chicago while earning the Hart Trophy in 2016 and the Conn Smythe in 2013. Kane is a three-time All-Star who scored 446 goals in a Blackhawks sweater, third-most in franchise history.
The Blackhawks traded Kane to the Rangers in February of 2022 as Davidson began a rebuilding effort. That plan led Chicago to the No. 1 overall pick in 2023, 21-year-old center Connor Bedard, who signed a five-year, $75-million extension last weekend. Now, Kane and Bedard will play alongside each other as teammates.
Most recently, Kane spent three seasons with the Red Wings. But at the age of 37 and entering his 20th NHL season, Kane may be concluding his storied career where it started with the Blackhawks.
Chris Emma covers the Bears and the Chicago sports scene for 104.3 The Score.
