Patrick Kane plans to make one final push for Olympic gold as he prepares for what’s likely his last chance to represent the United States at the highest level.
The 36-year-old was invited to the United States’ orientation camp taking place Tuesday and Wednesday. Kane wants a gold medal to complete a trophy case that already includes three Stanley Cups, a Conn Smythe, a Hart Trophy, and an Art Ross.
“The one thing that’s kind of missing is a gold in best-on-best, right? It would be fun to have that opportunity.”
Kane told NHL.com’s Nick Cotsonika.
The veteran forward was a core piece on U.S. Olympic teams in 2010 and 2014, plus the World Cup of Hockey in 2016. The Americans only won silver in 2010 across those tournaments.
Kane wasn’t selected for the 4 Nations Face-Off in February. But he’s hoping his strong second half last season will boost his Olympic chances.
He notched 45 points in his final 43 games with Detroit.
Kane wants to earn his spot through current play rather than past achievements. He’s the most decorated American player of his generation, but that’s not how he wants to make the team.
“I don’t want that to be a thing, either, where you’re getting selected for the team because of all that stuff. You want to be selected for the player you are and what you can bring to the team.”
“If you’re playing well and somebody else is playing well, and they take somebody else, well, you know, so be it. I put my best foot forward and I did all I could to try to make the team. I was happy that I finished well last year and kind of got myself back into maybe the conversation again, but we’ll see.”
Kane re-signed with Detroit this summer on a one-year, $3-million contract for his 19th NHL campaign.
He’s eight goals shy of 500 for his career. Kane also needs just 32 points to pass Mike Modano and become the highest-scoring American-born player in league history.
The 2026 Olympics represent Kane’s best remaining chance at international gold. NHL players will return to Olympic competition after missing the 2018 and 2022 Games.
