Patrick Kane becomes top American born scorer in NHL history

Patrick Kane now stands alone in the history books.

Kane, 37, passed Hockey Hall of Famer Mike Modano for the most career points from a U.S.-born player in NHL history.

The Red Wings right wing had an assist during the second period of Thursday’s 4-3 shootout loss against the Capitals in Detroit to give him his 1,375 career point, one more than Modano, who spend 21 years in the NHL.

Patrick Kane salutes the fans after his 1,375 career point, most by an American born player, on an assist on Ben Chiarot during the second period of the Red Wings’ 4-3 shootout loss to the Capitals at Little Caesars Arena on Jan. 29, 2026 in Detroit. NHLI via Getty Images

Kane’s teammates mobbed him in celebration once he notched the assist — with Ben Chiarot scoring the corresponding goal — and the home crowd giving him a standing ovation.

This milestone marks Kane’s second achievement this month, with the ex-Ranger becoming the 50th player to score 500 career goals during Detroit’s 5-1 victory over the Canucks on Jan. 8.

“I’m just kind of relieved to get it over with, to be honest with you,” Kane told reporters following the win. “It’s still a really cool feeling, obviously.”

Kane surpassed the mark on an empty-net goal late in the third period of the game, which was his second goal of the night.

Detroit right wing Patrick Kane (88) is surrounded by teammates after recording his 1,375th point to pass Mike Modano and break the NHL record for points by a player born in the United States. AP

“I’m not usually on the ice when the net is empty,” Kane said. “It was nice to get that opportunity and then hear the crowd erupt a little when I got on the ice was pretty cool. And then obviously getting the puck right away and having a chance to put it in the net for 500 was a great feeling.”

Kane is currently in his 19th NHL season, with the Buffalo, N.Y. native winning three Stanley Cup championships, along with becoming the first American to win the Hart Memorial Trophy in 2015-16 as a member of the Blackhawks.

Despite his long and illustrious career, Kane has not shown any sign that he is retiring in the near future, saying in April 2025 that he is “not thinking about stopping anytime soon.”