This former Chicago Blackhawks superstar is nearing a return

The Chicago Blackhawks closed the chapter on the Patrick Kane era last season.

It still does not mean Hawks fans do not want to know where the greatest player in franchise history will play next.

Still a free agent, Kane had offseason hip surgery. He last skated with the New York Rangers after the Chicago Blackhawks traded him at last season’s trade deadline.

Kaner chose to rehab this offseason and that is why he is still a free agent. Reports are out that he wants to sign with a new team by the end of the month.

The speculation is Kane wants to sign with a contender. Sportsnet’s John Shannon reported a handful of teams are interested.

Although Shannon later reported Kane has not met with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Kane has also been linked to the Detroit Red Wings since he would be able to reunite with one of his all-time favorite linemates, Alex DeBrincat.

Colorado has been rumored to be interested. He could also return to the Rangers.

The problem for Kane is some of the teams he is being linked to do not have much cap space.

Toronto, Tampa, Florida, Dallas, and Colorado are right at the salary cap. The Rangers barely have any space too.

Carolina has some space while Detroit and his hometown Buffalo Sabres have the most room.

Kane’s best bet is to take a prorated veteran minimum deal through the rest of the season and try to chase another Stanley Cup. He can then re-enter free agency and cash in.

Although, he could try to thread the needle by getting more money from the Red Wings who are currently on track to make the playoffs. It would be painful to see him in a Red Wings sweater, but then again these two rivals are no longer in the same conference.

If it is all about the money, then going to Buffalo probably makes the most sense since they have the cap space to offer him a lucrative deal even if it is for one season.

Just make sure to cross off a reunion with the Chicago Blackhawks. Both parties have moved on.