Patrick Kane looking to be part of solution to Red Wings playoff drought

Detroit — Alex DeBrincat was an important reason Patrick Kane became a Red Wing in 2023, as Kane considered a spot to continue his NHL career. The two have been linemates and friends for eight years, and DeBrincat wants to make sure there's a ninth season. Kane is a potential unrestricted free agent on July 1, but DeBrincat for one doesn't want to see that happen.

"We all hope he comes back, he's a huge part of our team," DeBrincat said. "We're really working towards something here, and obviously it hasn't gone our way the past couple years. But we believe in the group we have and the players we have here, and he's a big part of that and he sees it too.

That's why he chose coming here in the first place. "But it's ultimately his decision and we can beg him all we want, but we'll see what happens. ” Kane, 37, didn't sound like a player eager to see what's out there in the free-agent marketplace during his season-ending media availability.

He's grown attached to the Wings' organization in three seasons and has built relationships. Kane enjoys the area, and his son enjoys coming down to the rink and interacting with Wings' players. But, possibly most of all, Kane is intent on getting the Wings into the playoffs.