Patrick Kane signs two-year deal to return to Chicago Blackhawks
The Chicago Blackhawks have re-signed forward Patrick Kane to a two-year contract worth an $8 million cap hit, bringing the former captain back after a three-year stint with the Detroit Red Wings.
Patrick Kane will rejoin the Chicago Blackhawks on a two-year contract that carries an $8 million salary-cap hit. The 37-year-old winger, who spent the previous three seasons with the Detroit Red Wings, chose Chicago over an offer from his hometown Buffalo Sabres during free agency.
Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said the signing reflects a shift in the team’s strategy after trading Kane to the New York Rangers three years ago. > "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," Davidson said in a statement.
Kane’s agent Pat Brisson told the Chicago Sun-Times that the player is "extremely excited" and believes Chicago is "where he belongs." Kane posted a video of himself training at the Blackhawks Ice Center wearing a Blackhawks jersey, indicating he is ready for the upcoming season.
Kane recorded 163 points in 189 games over the last three seasons with Detroit, including 57 points in 67 games last season, though the Red Wings missed the playoffs each year. The contract includes a full no-movement clause and represents a significant raise from his previous $2.75-$4 million annual salary.
The move follows the retirement of former captain Jonathan Toews and comes as the team looks to integrate young talent such as Connor Bedard, who is recovering from shoulder surgery and may eventually line up alongside Kane.