History was made at Little Caesars Arena as Patrick Kane tied Mike Modano as the highest-scoring American-born NHL player. Explore the stats, the record, and the Red Wings’ battle against the Kings in 2026.
The record books of American hockey were rewritten on Tuesday night in Detroit. While the final score wasn’t what the home crowd wanted, those in attendance witnessed a historic milestone that has been decades in the making. Patrick Kane officially moved into a tie with Dallas Stars legend Mike Modano for the most points ever recorded by a U.S.-born player in NHL history.
Comparison of American Hockey Legends
| Feature | Patrick Kane | Mike Modano |
| Total Career Points | 1,374 | 1,374 |
| Games Played | 1,341 | 1,499 |
| Goals Scored | 500 | 561 |
| Assists Recorded | 874 | 813 |
| Age at Point 1,374 | 37 Years Old | 40 Years Old |
| Stanley Cups | 3 (Chicago) | 1 (Dallas) |
A Milestone Night in the Motor City
Entering Tuesday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Kings, the hockey world was on “Kane Watch.” The moment finally arrived late in the third period. With the Red Wings trailing and their goalie pulled for an extra skater, Patrick Kane collected the puck and fed a perfect pass to Alex DeBrincat, who buried it into the net.
That single assist was the 1,374th point of Kane’s illustrious career. By reaching this mark, Patrick Kane has cemented his status as the greatest American playmaker to ever lace up skates. What makes the feat even more impressive is the efficiency; Kane reached the record in 158 fewer games than Modano, showing the incredible consistency he has maintained since his rookie debut in 2007.
Kings Spoil the Party in Detroit
While the individual achievement was monumental, the Los Angeles Kings proved to be a difficult opponent on the ice. The Kings secured a 3-1 victory at Little Caesars Arena, led by a stellar 26-save performance from Anton Forsberg. Goals from Samuel Helenius and Andrei Kuzmenko gave the visitors a cushion that the Red Wings simply couldn’t overcome in the final minutes.
The loss snapped an eight-game winning streak for Detroit’s John Gibson, who has been sensational in net this season. Despite the defeat, the atmosphere remained electric as fans stayed to salute “Showtime.” For Patrick Kane, the focus remains on the team’s playoff push, even as he stands on the verge of owning the American scoring record all by himself.
The Road to 1,374: A Hall of Fame Journey
It has been a banner month for the 37-year-old winger. Just a few weeks ago, Patrick Kane became only the 50th player in NHL history to reach the 500-goal plateau. Now, by tying the points record, he has checked off nearly every major box for an American athlete in the sport.
From his three Stanley Cup rings with the Chicago Blackhawks to his Hart Trophy as league MVP, Patrick Kane has been the face of U.S. hockey for nearly two decades. His vision and “cerebral” style of play have allowed him to remain elite even as he nears 40. Seeing Patrick Kane share this record with Modano—a player he grew up admiring—is a “passing of the torch” moment that feels right for the sport.
What’s Next for the Red Wings?
The quest for point number 1,375 begins immediately. The Red Wings are scheduled to host the Washington Capitals this Thursday, providing Patrick Kane with the chance to take the top spot in front of his home fans. The team is currently in the thick of a tight Atlantic Division race, and having a locked-in, historic version of Kane is exactly what they need for the second half of the season.
Coach Derek Lalonde noted after the game that while the team is disappointed with the loss, they recognize the magnitude of what their teammate has accomplished. For Patrick Kane, the individual accolades are secondary to a deep playoff run, but there’s no doubt that becoming the “highest-scoring American ever” is a title he will wear with immense pride.
Conclusion: One Point Away from History
The 2025-26 NHL season is officially the Year of Showtime. While the game against the Kings didn’t end with a win, the night will be remembered for the moment Patrick Kane caught the legend, Mike Modano. With 1,374 points in the bag, the countdown to the record-breaking 1,375th point is on. Whether it happens on a highlight-reel goal or a subtle cross-ice pass, Patrick Kane is about to become the undisputed king of American hockey. Watching Patrick Kane continue to defy age and expectations is a privilege for every hockey fan, and the best may still be yet to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who did Patrick Kane tie for the American scoring record?
Patrick Kane tied Mike Modano, the former captain of the Dallas Stars and a 2014 Hockey Hall of Fame inductee.
2. How many points does Patrick Kane have now?
Following Tuesday night’s assist, Patrick Kane has 1,374 career points (500 goals and 874 assists).
3. Did the Red Wings win the game where the record was tied?
No, the Detroit Red Wings lost 3-1 to the Los Angeles Kings, though they scored late in the third to make it a close contest.
4. When can Patrick Kane break the record?
He has a chance to record point number 1,375 on Thursday, January 29, when the Detroit Red Wings host the Washington Capitals.
5. How does Patrick Kane compare to Brett Hull?
While Brett Hull had 1,391 points, he was born in Canada and held dual citizenship. Patrick Kane and Mike Modano are the highest-scoring players specifically born in the United States.
