Patrick Kane’s immediate concern when the 2025-26 NHL season starts Thursday is helping the Detroit Red Wings’ end their nine-year playoff drought. But he also has a handful of personal milestones within his reach this season, including Mike Modano’s record of 1,374 points by a player born in the United States.

Buffalo native Kane needs 32 points to surpass Modano who was one of Kane’s hockey heroes when he was growing up. Entering his 19th season, Kane boasts 1,343 points (492 goals, 851 assists) in 1,302 games. Kane, 36, needs eight goals for 500, 49 assists to reach 900 and 57 points to reach 1,400. Only 48 players have netted 500 goals, 20 players have reached 900 assists and 22 have totaled 1,400 points. If Kane can stay healthy, he can reach all of those milestones this season.

That should be good news for the Red Wings. Everyone witnessed how motivated Alexander Ovechkin and his teammates were when he chased Wayne Gretzky’s record last season. Everyone in the Detroit dressing room understands the importance of becoming the highest-scoring player born in the U.S. The Red Wings should benefit from the record chase.

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Prospect Notebook: Dmitri Buchelnikov picks up his pace in the KHL. Max Plante is off to quality start.

GM Steve Yzerman puts Erik Gustafsson and Justin Holl on waivers.

Griffins forward Dominik Shine wins major AHL award.

Red Wings Extra

Detroit prospect goalie Rudy Guimond, 16-0 for the Moncton Wildcats in the QMJHL last regular season, is 2-1-1 thus far this season with a 3.12 GAA and .902 save percentage. The Wildcats are not as strong as they were last season.

Rudy Guimond(6th round ‘23)
26 saves 2 GA 2nd ⭐️⭐️ in a 2-1 OTL#LGRW
Saves pic.twitter.com/Ly47ahRcNV

— Red Wings Prospects (@LGRWProspects) October 6, 2025

Hockey Now Network

Boston: The Bruins announced they will retire Zdeno Chara’s No. 33 in January. Boston Bruins.

Chicago: Blackhawks sign veteran defenseman Matt Grzelcyk to a one-year contract. Chicago Blackhawks. 

New Jersey: James Nichols offers right bold predictions about the New Jersey Devils.

Philadelphia: Flyers move Ryan Ellis’ contract to the San Jose Sharks. Philadelphia Flyers. 

Pittsburgh: Five Pittsburgh players with NHL experience, including Ryan Graves, cleared waivers. Pittsburgh Penguins.