Detroit Red Wings forward Patrick Kane made NHL history on Friday night, scoring his 20th goal of the season in a 5-3 win over the Carolina Hurricanes. This goal marked his 16th season with at least 20 goals, setting a new record for U.S.-born players. Kane’s achievement surpasses the previous mark held by Mike Modano.
In the game, Kane’s performance was pivotal. He contributed a goal and an assist, helping the Red Wings improve their record to 35-33-7. This win narrowed the gap to four points behind the Montreal Canadiens for the final Eastern Conference wild-card spot.
Kane’s consistency and skill have been invaluable to Detroit since his arrival. After signing a one-year contract with the Red Wings in November 2023, he scored his first goal with the team in just his second game. He enjoyed a six-game point streak in late December, tallying five goals and six assists. Kane concluded the season with 20 goals and 27 assists in 50 games, ranking fourth on the team in goals and sixth in points. He also led the team with three overtime goals and seven game-winning goals.
General Manager Steve Yzerman praised Kane’s contributions, highlighting his exceptional skill and poise under pressure. Kane’s leadership and performance have been instrumental in the Red Wings’ efforts to re-establish themselves as playoff contenders. As the team continues to push for a postseason berth, Kane’s experience and scoring prowess remain crucial assets.
