New York Rangers right wing Patrick Kane (88) Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports

Patrick Kane gives promising update on his health, NHL future

By Michael Gallagher | Last updated 9/1/23

Former Chicago Blackhawks and New York Rangers forward Patrick Kane is in no hurry to sign his next contract.

Kane’s agent Pat Brisson told ESPN in mid-July that his client might not sign before the 2023 season begins on Oct. 10 because the hip resurfacing surgery he underwent on June 1 could sideline him for a while.

But according to Kane, his recovery is progressing faster than originally thought and he could conceivably return ahead of schedule if he wanted.

“I think we’re at the point now where, I mean, could I come back early? Yeah, probably,” Kane told the Associated Press. “But does it make sense? You know, it might be better to take the full time and just make sure I’m at 105-110% instead of just 90-95.”

Patrick Kane scored to record his 15th career 20-goal season – trailing only Alex Ovechkin (18x) for the most among active players – and climbed the NHL's all-time points list by U.S.-born players in the process.#NHLStats: https://t.co/goqHMZzSyP pic.twitter.com/dohKoJtTQV
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) March 25, 2023

Kane did leave the door open to come back if the right team with the right deal presented itself, although it seems he’s content waiting and seeing where things are closer to November or December, the tail end of his expected six-month recovery window.

He expects to start collecting offers after NHL training camps begin in mid-September.

“If someone wanted to come and give an offer that I was excited about, and a situation that I’m excited about, it’s not like I wouldn’t be listening just because of the situation I’m in,” Kane added.

The 34-year-old forward also told the AP that he’s been on the ice approximately 20 times since his surgery and that he’s close to feeling back to his old self. Kane could be cleared for contact after his next doctor’s appointment.

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