Patrick Kane Faces Unexpected Hurdles As He Returns To The NHL

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Hunter Bowman
December 5, 2023 (8:44 PM)

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After inking a contract with the Detroit Red Wings just a week ago, seasoned forward Patrick Kane is encountering an unexpected setback on his path back to NHL action. Despite being labeled 'ready to return to action,' Kane faced challenges keeping up with the NHL pace during practice, prompting the decision to sit out not only tonight's upcoming game but also the team's previous two matchups.

Having undergone hip resurfacing surgery on June 1, Kane joined Detroit for his first full practice on Monday. While expressing that his body "feels good," he admitted the struggle of adapting to the heightened speed and intensity of the current NHL season.

"It's just about the game speed," noted Kane. "These guys are 25 games into the season. The intensity is ramped up, and everyone's kind of at the top of their game. I'm just trying to find that as quickly as possible."

The 35-year-old, a three-time Stanley Cup champion with the Chicago Blackhawks, joined the New York Rangers last season after a remarkable 16-year stint with the Blackhawks. Kane, renowned for his goal-scoring prowess, remains optimistic about regaining top-end form for the Red Wings post-surgery.

"I'm trying to have fun with that a little bit more and just build myself back up as we go along,"

said Kane.

The delay in Kane's debut raises questions about the next possible date, with Thursday's home game against San Jose or Saturday's matchup against Ottawa as potential opportunities. Detroit coach Derek Lalonde emphasized the need to carefully manage Kane's return for long-term success.

"We'll try to put him in a position to be successful," Lalonde stated. "We'll be smart about minutes, and we'll also be smart about who we're playing with him and that it's an opportunity to succeed."

The anticipation for Kane's impact on the Red Wings is palpable among fans and the coaching staff alike.

Source: Hawksinsider