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Jack Hughes surveyed the gathering.
American Hockey hosted a summer preparatory meeting for the nation’s NHL athletes in anticipation of the league’s Olympic comeback.
“Approximately 44 individuals were present,” recollected Hughes, who plays center for the New Jersey Devils, about the assembly in late August. “It’s likely that around 35 of them considered Patrick Kane their childhood idol.”
Kane, a three-time Stanley Cup champion and participant in the 2010 and 2014 Olympics, whose chances for the 2026 Games at 37 were slim, attended these discussions but was not selected for the final U.S. team roster.
Despite his absence, Kane’s impact will be clearly evident when the American squad competes in Italy next month.
“A remarkable career,” commented Jack Eichel, a center for the Vegas Golden Knights, who is slated for his inaugural Olympic appearance at the Milan-Cortina Winter Games, marking the NHL’s return after a 12-year hiatus. “Upon contemplating USA Hockey, he is among the initial athletes, if not the very first, to come to mind.”
Hughes, similarly preparing for his first Games participation, noted that Kane’s agility, showmanship, and knack for dramatic moments left an indelible impression on an entire generation of Americans.
“He probably possesses the most impressive compilation of career highlights ever,” Hughes stated. “Growing up, you’d view his clips and think, ‘That’s the individual I aspire to be.'”
“He’s ‘Showtime,’ undoubtedly a game-changer.”
Furthermore, Kane is nearing the pinnacle of his country’s all-time points leaders.
Integral Figure in Chicago’s Dominance
Hailing from Buffalo, he achieved 500 goals last week, becoming the fifth American to reach this milestone, and needs only four more points to surpass Mike Modano’s 1,374-point record for a player born in the United States.
Currently playing as a winger for the Detroit Red Wings, following a period with the New York Rangers, Kane was an essential component of Chicago’s dominant era, which saw them clinch the Cup in 2010, 2013, and 2015. As the top selection in the 2007 draft, he also contributed to the U.S. securing a silver medal at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.
“His consistent desire to execute a play and succeed was quite extraordinary,” remarked Matt Boldy, a forward for the Minnesota Wild. “It’s a trait not often observed in many players. He consistently maintained possession of the puck.”
Alex DeBrincat, Kane’s linemate on the Red Wings, grew up rooting for Detroit in Michigan, yet he admired the consistent performance Kane, the 2013 Conn Smythe Trophy recipient for playoff MVP, delivered nightly. Now, he witnesses this firsthand every day.
“It was enjoyable from the very beginning when we were paired,” DeBrincat stated regarding the winner of the 2015-16 Hart Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award. “His actions remain phenomenal. I’ve gained extensive knowledge, from his playing style to his physical regimen.”
Charlie McAvoy, a defenceman for the Boston Bruins, held Kane, the 2007-08 Calder Trophy recipient for NHL Rookie of the Year and the league’s top scorer in 2015-16, in high regard, long before he competed against him in the NHL and alongside him for the U.S. team at the 2018 world championship.
“Observing Chicago’s successful run as a youngster, you’d see him perform actions that, back then, were simply unparalleled,” McAvoy recalled. “He established a precedent for the dexterity and swiftness in the stick-handling of numerous players.”
Tage Thompson, a center for the Buffalo Sabres, noted that Kane’s knack for initiating offense from the wing despite his smaller stature redefined perspectives and strategic positioning in hockey.
“I used to emulate him, his equipment, his celebrations; he was truly a legendary athlete,” Thompson commented. “It was unconventional for a more compact player to exert such a significant offensive influence. He made a breakthrough and, in my opinion, altered that perception for many young players.”
And established an elevated benchmark for the nation.
“An undeniable icon,” stated McAvoy. “And it’s wonderful that he represents America.”
