On December 29, 2024, Detroit Red Wings right winger Patrick Kane achieved a significant career milestone by reaching 1,300 points in the NHL during a game against the Washington Capitals. This accomplishment makes him only the third American-born player to reach this mark, joining the ranks of hockey legends. Kane's scoring began early in the first period, where he netted a power-play goal, giving the Red Wings a 2-0 advantage over the Capitals.
Later in the game, Kane assisted teammate Alex DeBrincat, marking his 1,300th point and contributing to a 4-2 victory for Detroit. This win not only ended the team's four-game losing streak but also marked Todd McLellan's first victory as the new head coach of the Red Wings.
In terms of active NHL players, Kane currently ranks fourth in points, trailing only Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, and Evgeni Malkin. Among American players, he holds a commanding lead, with Capitals defenseman John Carlson being the next closest with 697 points. As Kane looks to the future, he is less than 100 points away from surpassing Mike Modano and Brett Hull, the all-time American leaders.
While Kane's scoring pace has slowed in recent seasons, he still managed to score 47 points in 50 games last year and has added 16 points in 31 games this season. Given his current trajectory, it may take him a few more seasons to become the all-time leader in points among American-born skaters.