Free agent Patrick Kane to throw a curveball with the Philadelphia Flyers?
PUBLICATION
Ryan Hall
November 27, 2023 (11:53)
Over the past few weeks, unrestricted free agent Patrick Kane has been in the news and the rumour mill regarding which team he will sign with upon his return to the NHL after undergoing hip resurfacing surgery last June.
After being knocked out of the playoffs, Kane revealed that he was suffering from a major hip injury and had undergone surgery to correct the problem. This meant a four to six-month recovery time, and Kane has been ahead of schedule.
Many teams have been listed as potential suitors for the 35-year-old winger, including the Buffalo Sabres, Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, Dallas Stars, and others, all exploring the possibility of acquiring the three-time Stanley Cup champ.
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But would Kane consider joining the Philadelphia Flyers?
There are several reasons why it's not out of the realm of possibility, as the Flyers organization and fan base are among the most well-known in the NHL.
First, he would provide a boost to the Flyers' offence. As a perennial goal scorer and point-getter, he would offer their power play an option they haven't had in some time. Last season, between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Rangers, he accumulated 22 power-play points, bringing his total to over 401 power-play points in his 16 years in the NHL.
Secondly, there would be no question that he would be in the top 6 and could easily slot into along those lines. He would acquire top-line minutes if he chooses, instantly becoming the star of the team.
Third, he would be playing in an American city. Kane has played his entire career in the United States, and being born in America, it is likely he would want to stay in his home country. The City of Brotherly Love would welcome him with open arms, and the widespread Flyers fan base would boost his confidence and ego.
Some have said that he might struggle with head coach John Tortorella due to not being as defensively sound as Tortorella would prefer. It's safe to say that if Kane finds his scoring touch again and starts scoring for the Flyers, any defensive deficiencies would likely be overlooked.
Could a marriage between the Flyers and Kane happen? It's plausible, and we will need to wait and see what his decision will be, as it's expected to be made within the next several days.
Previously on FlyersInsider
POLL |
27 NOVEMBRE | 218 ANSWERS Free agent Patrick Kane to throw a curveball with the Philadelphia Flyers? Would you like to see Patrick Kane on the Flyers this year? |
Yes | 99 | 45.4 % |
No | 119 | 54.6 % |
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