On a night that stirred up plenty of emotions in Chicago, Patrick Kane etched his name into the NHL history books - but this time, he did it wearing a different shade of red.
With a slick assist against the Kings on Tuesday, Kane reached 1,374 career points, tying Mike Modano for the most ever by an American-born player. That’s rarified air, and it’s a milestone that speaks volumes about the kind of career Kane has built - one defined by creativity, consistency, and clutch moments. And while Blackhawks fans may have had mixed feelings seeing it happen in a Detroit Red Wings jersey, there’s no denying the significance of the achievement.
Let’s put this into context: Kane has reached that 1,374-point mark in just 1,341 games. That’s more than a point per game over a career that’s spanned nearly two decades. He’s done it with a balanced attack, too - 500 goals and 874 assists, a testament to his dual-threat ability as both a finisher and a playmaker.
Of course, most of those points came in a Blackhawks sweater, where Kane became a franchise icon. Over 1,161 games in Chicago, he racked up 1,225 points - 446 goals and 779 assists - while helping deliver three Stanley Cups to the Windy City. His vision, hands, and ability to rise in the biggest moments made him the heartbeat of those championship teams.
After a brief stint with the Rangers in 2022-23 - 29 games, 12 points - Kane landed in Detroit, where he’s continued to produce at a high level. In three seasons with the Red Wings, he’s added 136 points (49 goals, 87 assists) to his already stacked résumé. And now, he stands on the brink of sole possession of the American scoring record.
When - not if - Kane picks up his next point, he’ll move into 27th all-time in NHL history, just behind Evgeni Malkin. And while Malkin is still active and climbing, Kane’s place among the game’s greats is already secure. This isn’t just a milestone; it’s a marker of longevity, elite skill, and a career that’s helped define a generation of American hockey.
Yes, it may be jarring for Blackhawks fans to see him reach this peak in a rival uniform. But make no mistake - Patrick Kane’s legacy is deeply tied to Chicago, and this record is part of that story.
Whether it’s the no-look passes, the overtime daggers, or the unforgettable playoff runs, Kane has always found a way to make history. Tuesday night was just the latest chapter.