Patrick Kane, with his recent goal into an empty net on Thursday night, has become just the sixth American-born player in NHL history to score 500 career goals. This achievement further cements Kane’s status as one of the greatest American players of all time, if not the best. During a game where the Red Wings were winning against the Canucks with less than four minutes remaining, Kane grabbed the puck in neutral territory, looked at the empty net, and fired a shot past the goalie, earning his spot in the exclusive 500-goal club.
Kane’s career is decorated with numerous milestones and awards, including three Stanley Cup championships, the Hart Trophy, Conn Smythe Trophy, and Calder Trophy. His impressive résumé makes a compelling case for being the top American player ever, although he faces tough competition from legends like Mike Modano, Chris Chelios, and Brian Leetch, as well as current stars such as Auston Matthews, Connor Hellebuyck, Matthew Tkachuk, and Quinn Hughes.
Having reached the 500-goal mark, the top 10 American-born NHL players are as follows:
- Patrick Kane: 500 goals, 869 assists, 1,369 points (active player)
- Mike Modano: 561 goals, 813 assists, 1,374 points
- Chris Chelios: 185 goals, 763 assists, 948 points
- Brian Leetch: 247 goals, 781 assists, 1,028 points
- Connor Hellebuyck (goalie): 331 wins, 2.56 GAA, .917 save percentage, 45 shutouts
- Auston Matthews: 422 goals, 339 assists, 761 points (active player)
- Matthew Tkachuk: 240 goals, 396 assists, 636 points (active player)
- Phil Housley: 338 goals, 894 assists, 1,232 points
- Pat LaFontaine: 468 goals, 545 assists, 1,013 points
- Quinn Hughes (active player): stats not listed in the excerpt
Eichel, now with the Vegas Golden Knights, has proven to be one of the league’s top two-way centers, especially evident during their 2023 Stanley Cup victory where he led in assists during the playoffs. Tkachuk has been instrumental in Florida’s consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances and wins, contributing significantly despite injury setbacks. Housley stands out as a premier offensive defenseman, holding the record for goals by an American defenseman. LaFontaine’s premium scoring in limited games showed his efficiency and dominance during his prime. Matthews, still young at 28, is on a trajectory to surpass the 600-goal mark, potentially reaching 700, and has already won multiple scoring titles and a Hart Trophy. Hellebuyck is regarded as the greatest American goaltender, with recent awards confirming his standing, and he aims to lead Team USA to Olympic gold. Leetch’s longevity and success, including a Stanley Cup and multiple Norris Trophies, affirm his elite status. Modano, with his record for goals by an American, remains one of the best of his generation, particularly shining during the Dallas Stars’ 1999 Stanley Cup run. Chelios, with the most games played by an American, is a legendary figure in terms of durability and defensive skill, securing three Stanley Cups along the way. Kane’s recent milestone highlights his peak contributions and his role in transforming the Blackhawks into a dynasty, making him a clear icon in American hockey history.
Fan Take: Kane’s historic goal tally not only adds another chapter to his legendary career but also elevates the profile of American talent in the NHL’s history. For hockey fans, this milestone serves as a reminder of the growing dominance and impact of U.S. players, inspiring a new generation to chase greatness on the ice.
