Hockey Insider Elliotte Friedman Reveals Where Superstar Patrick Kane is Headed

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Dawson Mckenzie
November 25, 2023 (11:48)

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NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman has revealed where Patrick Kane is headed next season and why.

Elliotte Friedman Reveals Where Patrick Kane Might End Up Next Year

Patrick Kane is definitely keeping everyone guessing regarding where he is going to end up next season, as he remains unsigned heading into November. The leading teams remaining in the Kane sweepstakes are the Buffalo Sabres, the Florida Panthers, and the Detroit Red Wings.

Now Elliotte Friedman has revealed why Patrick Kane is leaning towards signing with an Eastern Conference team, and why some teams are better fits than others.

Educated dart-throwing: some of the teams he likes (or like him) aren't perfect fits. Dallas would be an example, with the Stars believed to be prioritizing defence. Kane did talk to Toronto, but again, the Maple Leafs' priority is on the blue line. Another concern is West travel. We just saw a situation where Klingberg's problems were exacerbated by a flight from Toronto to Stockholm; there's no question the Eastern schedule is less taxing.

I've discussed Florida's aggressiveness several times, and it seems like an excellent fit. The question here comes down to what contract and lifestyle choices Kane prefers. He is believed to want a multi-year contract (he does not qualify as an over-35 because his birthday came after June 30) at what he considers a fair number. As it stands, the Panthers can't do that. Buffalo can. So can Detroit.

Kane Would be The Best Fit in Buffalo, Detroit, or Florida

As it stands, Kane seems to be the best fit for Buffalo, Florida, or Detroit, all teams that have the money and space to do something for multiple years and could benefit from Kane's services.

Are #FlaPanthers the frontrunner for Patrick Kane?

Everyone is keeping a tight lip, but as Kane narrows down his list and closes in on a decision - perhaps later this week - some rivals think #TimeToHunt are the team to beat.

All three of these teams are also Eastern conference teams, limiting Kane's travel and potential for reinjuring himself due to long plane rides, like the Leafs' John Klingberg.

@DailyFaceoff - Is it time to pick up Patrick Kane?

With Patrick Kane expected to sign within the near future, @frank_seravalli shares the latest news surrounding the Free Agent.

As seen on Puck Reporter - "Elliotte Friedman Reveals Where Patrick Kane Is Headed"