Patrick Kane out ‘about 4 to 6 months’ after hip surgery

Patrick Kane could miss the start of the 2023-24 NHL season after having his hip resurfaced on Thursday.

The future Hall of Famer, 35, is optimistic that the surgery will not negatively affect the longevity of his career.

Kane is an unrestricted free agent this summer. A Game 7 loss to the New Jersey Devils on April 27 ended his first season with the New York Rangers.

Kane’s acquisition by the Rangers in February ended the Buffalonian’s 15-year association with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he won a Hart Trophy with three Stanley Cups and a Conn Smythe Trophy.

In 2022-23, Kane had his first season with less than a point per game since 2017-18. A midseason push for Chicago, where he had 12 goals and 23 points in 23 games from Dec. 23 to Feb. 22, restored his trade value enough to lure the Rangers as a contender.

In 19 regular season games with New York, Kane scored 5 goals and 12 points to go with 6 points in the Rangers’ playoff loss to New Jersey.

Kane, one of the greatest American hockey players of all time, will be sought after for his ability to play despite his age and injury. His playoff experience and power play expertise will always make him an asset.

Still, his failing defense and new durability issues could seriously affect the tenure teams will be willing to offer him.

A return to Chicago to rebuild his stock isn’t out of the question if Kane can’t come to terms with a team vying for a prize his side loves.

If Kane, who has 779 career assists, decides to return to Windy City, he could help revive the career of the next potential Blackhawks superstar, Connor Bedard.