Nathan MacKinnon’s Avalanche could land Patrick Kane to boost Cup chase

Nathan MacKinnon’s Colorado Avalanche could become the latest stop for Patrick Kane, the 38-year-old veteran forward chasing one final Stanley Cup push.

The Avalanche’s quiet offseason took another turn on 10 July when NHL insider David Pagnotta told Leafs Morning Take that Kane’s next move could land him in Colorado. The 16-goal, 57-point winger from Detroit this year is weighing options-Toronto, Buffalo, Chicago, or Denver-with a reunion with the Blackhawks or a Sabres surge also in play.

Why Colorado fits Nathan MacKinnon’s timeline

Kane’s 57 points in 67 games last season came with 19 on the power play, but Detroit’s unit ranked near the bottom of the league. The Avalanche’s top-nine needs a right-shot winger who can set up MacKinnon, Martin Necas, and Cale Makar. Kane’s left-shot right-wing profile opens cross-ice passing lanes and net-front disruption, exactly what the Avs lacked when they fell short in the playoffs.

How Kane upgrades the Avalanche’s attack

Colorado’s power play sputtered in 2025-26, repeatedly overpassing and missing net-front chances. Adding Kane would let MacKinnon play through the middle while Necas slides to the left side, creating a dynamic top line. Arturri Lehkonen’s net-front presence pairs naturally with Kane’s playmaking, giving the Avs a fresh look on special teams.

Avalanche’s cap constraints shape Kane’s market

The Avalanche entered July with negative cap space, forcing them to clear room for any major addition. A short-term, bonus-laden deal like Brent Burns’ recent contract could fit Kane’s goal: one last shot at a championship. General manager Chris MacFarland has shown a willingness to make bold, low-AAV moves when the fit is right.

Kane’s own words on his future

In April, Kane told reporters his family enjoys Detroit, but he’ll weigh all options. “There’s no rush,” he said. “We’ll talk with my agent and family and see how everything plays out.” A Colorado stop would reunite him with former Blackhawks teammates and give MacKinnon a proven playoff performer to lean on down the stretch.