Patrick Kane Has Timetable To Start Talking To Teams

Many are still wondering what is going on with Patrick Kane. He is still an unrestricted free agent and hasn't even begun talking with teams yet. He is not going to start the season with any team, but Darren Dreger reported that Kane isn't likely to start talking to teams until the end of October, still a month away.

Apparently there is a lot of interest, and rightfully so for the 34-year-old with over 1200 points and three Stanley Cups. The wait is because Kane is awaiting more medical information before potentially signing a better deal with a team. Whether he is still chasing Cups or wanting to find a good place to play, he is definitely looking to join a playoff-bound team.

If Kane is ready by the end of October to play, that will put him right where the expected timetable for his return was set after his hip procedure. Chris Johnston noted that most teams interested in Kane are right up against the cap. This would force Kane to sign for much less money for one year with some performance bonuses attached, or to go to a team with more cap space (albeit a worse team).

The Buffalo Sabres and Detroit Red Wings seem to be two of the most likely landing spots because of where they are expected to be in the standings and the cap space available. Kane is born in Buffalo while he has a connection to newly acquired Red Wings winger Alex DeBrincat. If these teams start well this season, I expect a hard push for Kane by both.