Patrick Kane ties Mike Modano's U.S.-born NHL points record

Patrick Kane etched his name deeper into NHL history on January 27, 2026. During the Detroit Red Wings’ 3-1 loss to the Los Angeles Kings, the veteran forward earned an assist on Alex DeBrincat’s late goal, reaching 1,374 career points.[1][2] This tied him with Mike Modano for the most points by a U.S.-born player. At 37 years old, Kane accomplished the feat far quicker than Modano, who hit the mark at 40.[1]

Kane has long been a cornerstone of American hockey. Drafted first overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2007, he became a Stanley Cup hero and individual award winner. Now with Detroit, his pursuit of this record underscores his enduring excellence.[3]

The play that made history

The milestone arrived in the waning moments of the third period. DeBrincat capitalized on Kane’s precise pass to beat Kings goaltender. Despite the loss, the Little Caesars Arena crowd erupted in applause for the American icon.[1]

Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde praised Kane postgame, highlighting his leadership. The assist was Kane’s 874th, pairing with 500 goals over 1,341 games. This efficiency stands out in an era of parity.[4]

Fans on social media buzzed immediately. Reddit threads captured the excitement, with one post noting DeBrincat “rips it down low” for the record-tying helper.[5] Highlights spread across platforms, cementing the moment.

Kane downplayed it humbly, focusing on team play. His poise reflects years of high-stakes experience. The Kings’ victory overshadowed the personal achievement, but history won’t forget.

For full game details, check the NHL recap.[1]

Kane’s trophy case and team success

Kane’s career sparkled early. He won the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year in 2007-08. That set the stage for dominance.

In 2013, he claimed the Conn Smythe as playoff MVP, leading Chicago to the Cup. Two more titles followed in 2010 and 2015.

His Hart Trophy in 2015-16 came with league-leading scoring. Kane tallied 106 points that season.

Key achievements include:

• Three Stanley Cups (2010, 2013, 2015)
• Hart Memorial Trophy (2016)
• Conn Smythe Trophy (2013)
• Calder Memorial Trophy (2008)
• 500 career goals (reached January 2026)[6]

These honors place him among elites. His Blackhawks tenure defined a dynasty post-salary cap.

Standing alongside Modano

Mike Modano held the mark since retiring in 2011. He amassed 1,374 points (561 goals, 813 assists) in 1,499 games.

Kane matches at 500 goals, 874 assists in fewer games: 1,341. This showcases superior production per game.[4]

Modano embraced the chase earlier. In November 2025, he said Kane breaking it was “inevitable.”[7] Their styles differed—Modano a center, Kane a winger—but both powerhouses.

Both hail from the U.S. heartland. Modano from Minnesota, Kane from Buffalo. For detailed stats, see Hockey-Reference.[4]

American records evolve. Brett Hull’s 1,391 points (dual citizen) looms larger, but U.S.-born crown is Kane’s to claim solo next.

From Chicago dynasty to Detroit resurgence

Kane left Chicago after 1,225 points in 1,161 games. He joined the Rangers briefly before signing with Detroit.[3]

In 160 Red Wings games, he’s posted 49 goals and 87 assists. This season, through January, 8 goals and 22 assists.[8][9]

Pairing with DeBrincat revives chemistry. Their goal vs. LA exemplified it.

Kane hit 500 goals earlier in January. He told reporters, “I still feel like there’s another level,” emphasizing relentless grind.[10]

Detroit eyes playoffs. Kane’s veteran savvy aids young talent.

Looking ahead: Breaking the record?

One point separates Kane from sole possession. At his pace, it could come soon.

Red Wings face stiff Atlantic competition. Playoff push intensifies post-All-Star.

Modano’s legacy inspired Kane. Passing it honors that.

Kane eyes Olympics too. Gold with USA remains a dream.[11]

This milestone cements Kane’s Hall of Fame path. American hockey rises with stars like him. Expect more history from the ageless wonder.