The Detroit Red Wings are set to receive a significant boost to their lineup next week, as head coach Derek Lalonde confirmed that veteran forward Patrick Kane is expected to return on Tuesday for the team’s game against the Boston Bruins. Kane has been sidelined since November 23 due to an upper-body injury, missing the last four games. While Lalonde mentioned that Kane’s return is “trending” in the right direction, he did not definitively confirm the exact timeline. “Patrick Kane is trending to be back on Tuesday in Boston,” Lalonde said on Saturday, per Daniella Bruce.
Kane’s potential return comes at a crucial time for the Red Wings, who have been struggling offensively. The team ranks 25th in the league in goals per game (2.57) and has scored just 59 goals through 23 games. Despite strong individual performances from Dylan Larkin (12 goals) and Alex DeBrincat (8 goals), Detroit’s depth scoring has been inconsistent. Players like Vladimir Tarasenko and Kane himself, both with only three goals each, have yet to find their rhythm, contributing to the team’s overall offensive difficulties.
This season, Kane has posted three goals and seven assists in 20 games, numbers that aren’t eye-popping but still represent valuable contributions given the team’s struggles. His presence in the lineup could help address some of the Red Wings’ scoring issues, particularly in terms of depth. Kane’s ability to generate offense and provide leadership could also alleviate some of the pressure on Larkin and DeBrincat to carry the load.
The Red Wings (10-11-2) will be without Kane for their Sunday matchup against the Vancouver Canucks (12-7-3) following a tough loss to the New Jersey Devils. However, Detroit is optimistic that Kane will rejoin the team for their upcoming road trip, which includes games against Boston and the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday and Thursday. If Kane is indeed back in the lineup, it could provide a much-needed spark for the Red Wings as they continue their push for improved performance in the coming weeks.
