Patrick Kane is a legend in the game of hockey that has accomplished almost everything there is to win in the NHL and beyond. There are very few items left on the check list for Kane to check off.
As the soon to be 37 year old enters his 19th season in the NHL, one wonders what still drives Kaner to show up to the rink at this level of his life. Now a father and family man, hockey is not his entire life anymore.
Patrick revealed the answer to this question in an interview during the NHL's media tour week as the 25-26 season draws ever nearer.
What motivates Kane to keep playing?
The stats are great for Kane. He is chasing a couple remarkable milestones this season with the chance to pass the 500 goal mark and become the highest producing American player of all time when it comes to points.
But, goals and assists are not why Kane does it. Kane said it is the clutch moments that inspire him to continue playing. Kane described the "thrill" of stepping up for his team and showing up for his teammates when it matters. Kane has always loved the pressure and spotlight when it comes to big game moments, he earned the "Showtime" nickname from his former Blackhawk teammate Patrick Sharp for a reason.
This will be a big season for Kane as he will be counted on to help bring his Detroit Red Wings team back to the playoffs this season for what would be the first time in a decade. He will also fight for a spot on Team USA for what would likely be his last chance to win a gold medal on the Olympic stage.