Patrick Kane Thriving with Red Wings After Hip Surgery: ‘The Hunger’s Still There’
DETROIT – At 36, Patrick Kane is defying expectations and showcasing his enduring passion for hockey with the Detroit Red Wings. Despite a surgically repaired hip and a decorated career that virtually guarantees him a spot in the Hockey Hall of Fame, Kane continues to excel, fueling the Red Wings’ playoff push.As of March 15, 2025, Kane has tallied 15 points (six goals, nine assists) in his last 12 games. [[1](https://www.espn.com/nhl/player/_/id/3735/patrick-kane)]
Kane’s Impact on the Red Wings
The Red Wings (31-29-6) are battling for a wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, sitting just two points out of contention. Kane’s offensive contributions have been crucial to the team’s performance.
Coach McLellan Praises Kane’s Dedication
“I just think that he loves playing hockey still,” Red wings coach Todd McLellan said of Kane. “He comes and he wants to play, and he wants the puck and he wants it to make plays…he can’t wait to get back on the ice again,and that excitement to play remains there.” McLellan emphasized that Kane’s continued drive is remarkable considering his accomplishments and secure future. “The hunger’s still there,” McLellan noted.
Overcoming a Rare Surgery
Kane underwent hip resurfacing surgery on June 1, 2023, to address a hip impingement. The procedure involved trimming the femoral head, capping it with metal, and replacing the socket with a metal shell. Prior to kane’s success, no hockey player had returned to elite performance after such a surgery.
Yzerman Took a Chance, Kane Delivered
Red wings general manager Steve Yzerman acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Kane’s recovery when he signed him to a one-year contract on Nov. 28, 2023. “How effective he’s going to be remains to be seen, but based on his health and his testing, I think he has a chance to be vrey effective,” Yzerman stated. Kane himself cited “the love and passion for the game, still wanting to play” as his primary motivation.
continued success
Kane’s performance has been consistent as joining Detroit.After signing another one-year contract on June 30, he has 45 points (17 goals, 28 assists) in 55 games this season. While he has missed time due to upper-body injuries, his surgically repaired hip has not been a factor in his absences.
How has Patrick Kane’s performance with the Red Wings contributed to their playoff chances?
Patrick Kane Thriving with Red Wings After Hip Surgery: ‘The Hunger’s Still There’
DETROIT – At 36, Patrick Kane is defying expectations and showcasing his enduring passion for hockey with the Detroit Red Wings. Despite a surgically repaired hip and a decorated career that virtually guarantees him a spot in the Hockey Hall of Fame, Kane continues to excel, fueling the Red Wings’ playoff push. As of March 15, 2025, Kane has tallied 15 points (six goals, nine assists) in his last 12 games. [[1](https://www.espn.com/nhl/player/_/id/3735/patrick-kane)]
Kane’s Impact on the Red Wings
The Red Wings (31-29-6) are battling for a wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, sitting just two points out of contention. Kane’s offensive contributions have been crucial to the team’s performance.
coach McLellan Praises Kane’s Dedication
“I just think that he loves playing hockey still,” Red Wings coach Todd McLellan said of Kane. “He comes and he wants to play, and he wants the puck and he wants it to make plays… he can’t wait to get back on the ice again, and that excitement to play remains there.” McLellan emphasized that Kane’s continued drive is remarkable considering his accomplishments and secure future. “The hunger’s still there,” McLellan noted.
Overcoming a Rare Surgery
Kane underwent hip resurfacing surgery on June 1, 2023, to address a hip impingement. The procedure involved trimming the femoral head,capping it with metal,and replacing the socket with a metal shell. Prior to Kane’s success, no hockey player had returned to elite performance after such a surgery.
Yzerman Took a Chance, Kane Delivered
Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Kane’s recovery when he signed him to a one-year contract on nov. 28, 2023.“How effective he’s going to be remains to be seen, but based on his health and his testing, I think he has a chance to be very effective,” Yzerman stated. kane himself cited “the love and passion for the game, still wanting to play” as his primary motivation.
Continued Success
Kane’s performance has been consistent since joining Detroit. After signing another one-year contract on June 30, he has 45 points (17 goals, 28 assists) in 55 games this season. While he has missed time due to upper-body injuries, his surgically repaired hip has not been a factor in his absences.
Q&A: Patrick Kane’s Remarkable Comeback
Q: What exactly was Patrick Kane’s hip surgery, and why was it considered so notable?
A: Kane underwent hip resurfacing surgery, a procedure where the damaged bone surfaces of the hip joint are replaced with metal components.This was a pioneering surgery for hockey players, as there was no precedent for a return to elite performance after this type of procedure. His prosperous return is a testament to his dedication and the advancements in medical technology.
Q: How has Kane’s performance been since joining the red Wings?
A: Kane has been a consistent offensive contributor. Since joining the Red wings, he has 45 points (17 goals, 28 assists) in 55 games this season. He also had a 5-point night on February 23, 2025, against the Sabres, showing he can still dominate on the ice [[1](https://apnews.com/article/red-wings-sabres-score-ee1c16c1bb32076c0dcc1b1d11044069)].
Q: What is the state of the Red Wings’ playoff chances?
A: The red Wings are in a tight race for a wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, just two points out of contention. Kane’s offensive production is a key factor in their playoff push.
Q: What motivates Patrick Kane to continue playing at such a high level?
A: Kane’s love and passion for hockey,and enjoyment of the game. His coach has noted that “the hunger’s still there.”
Q: What’s next for Kane?
A: With Kane’s current success, he’s proving that age is just a number. It’s a great story of perseverance and skill. Keep an eye on Kane as the Red Wings battle for a playoff spot!
