Patrick Kane's free agency has reportedly narrowed to two options, a return to the Chicago Blackhawks or a homecoming with the Buffalo Sabres.
Hall of Famer Chris Chelios shared the update this week, saying he spoke with Kane directly about the decision.
Chelios described it as a genuinely tough call, one weighing history against homecoming.
Chicago drafted Kane first overall back in 2007, and he helped deliver three championships there before later stops elsewhere.
Buffalo is different. It is where Kane was born and raised, and signing there would put him close to family for the first time in his career.
The hockey case actually favors Buffalo more than people might assume.
The Sabres finished 50-23-9 for 109 points and fourth overall this season, while Chicago finished 29-39-14 for just 72 points and 31st.
Buffalo's record makes the stronger hockey case
That gap says a lot about which roster is actually closer to contending right now.
Chicago's pitch leans on need. Connor Bedard is reportedly expected to open next season out of the lineup, and the Blackhawks could use another playmaker early on.
Bedard still put up 30 goals and 75 points over 69 games this past season, proof of what Chicago is trying to protect around him.
Kane reportedly closed his own season with 16 goals, 41 assists and 57 points over 67 games, numbers suggesting he can still help either club right away.
General managers Kyle Davidson in Chicago and Jarmo Kekalainen in Buffalo are both waiting on the same phone call.
Kekalainen only took over in Buffalo this past December, and landing a name like Kane would be a loud early statement.
Chicago is working through its own rebuild under head coach Jeff Blashill, who could use a veteran voice in that room too.
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Whichever way Kane leans, the decision will double as a public statement on how he wants his career remembered.
Should Patrick Kane pick Buffalo over a Chicago reunion?
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