According to trusted insider Kevin Weekes, the Panthers are the team to watch.
This would make sense as Florida is an attractive place to play for any player in the league. Not only did they make it to the Stanley Cup Finals but they also have a strong roster which includes American star Matthew Tkachuk who could play a big role in prying Patrick Kane.
In today's Ice Breakers segment on Daily Faceoff Live, Frank Seravalli delves into Patrick Kane's return timeline and the potential leading role of the Florida Panthers in the veteran's quest for a fourth Stanley Cup.
Colby Cohen: Any updates on Patrick Kane?
Frank Seravalli: It's a good question, and while I don't have a definite answer, the timeline suggests that we'll get one from Kane by the end of this week, just after U.S. Thanksgiving.
Frank Seravalli: Having completed his training in Toronto, rehab is now behind him, and reports indicate his lateral movement is exceptional. Observers note that he appears fully healthy post-hip surgery.
Frank Seravalli: Teams I've been in touch with in the last 24-48 hours haven't received indications that they're out of the running. No one is excluded from the mix. Among the teams he has met with or had discussions with are the Detroit Red Wings, Buffalo Sabres, Dallas Stars, Tampa Bay Lightning, Florida Panthers, and the Toronto Maple Leafs, among others.
Notably, he met with the Leafs last Monday in Toronto before their trip to Sweden. However, I believe the Leafs are on the periphery. In Detroit, there's been some interest in reuniting him with Alex DeBrincat, but the potential disruption to that line is a consideration. There's speculation about whether he might go to Buffalo to assist in their playoff aspirations.
Frank Seravalli: Many teams are contemplating whether the Florida Panthers are the frontrunners for Kane's services. Given their strong start to the season, they could be the best chance for Kane to pursue a fourth Stanley Cup this season. With the dynamic performance of their offense, even without top defensemen Brandon Montour and Aaron Ekblad (both returning), there's a growing belief that the Panthers might be a multi-year destination for Kane. This could mean a potential multi-year deal or considerations down the line, especially with their cap space clearing up. South Florida could prove to be a compelling fit for Kane.
For the second straight year, the Panthers could be in a position to cause a surprise in the playoffs.
With their current core of players, they're already among the best rosters in the NHL.
With Patrick Kane, it seems like nothing could come in their way to win the Stanley Cup.
Do you think Kane will sign in Florida?
POLL | ||
21 NOVEMBRE | 143 ANSWERS Frontrunner For Patrick Kane Has Been Officially Revealed Do you think Kane will sign in Florida? | ||
Yes | 67 | 46.9 % |
No | 76 | 53.1 % |
List of polls |