Patrick Kane and Alex DeBrincat make up one of the best dynamic duos in hockey who have given opponents headaches for not one, but two different franchises dating back to the 2017-18 season. On Thursday night during the Detroit Red Wings big win vs. the Anaheim Ducks, Kane and DeBrincat set a record for American-born players.
Dave Hogg confirmed it on BlueSky, saying, "Patrick Kane picked up his 92nd assist on an Alex DeBrincat goal tonight. That's the record for two American-born players.
"They have a way to go for the all-time record, though. Wayne Gretzky assisted on 364 of Jari Kurri's goals."
Patrick Kane and Alex DeBrincat solidified themselves in history
The NHL probably won't see Kane and DeBrincat come close to Gretzky's and Kurri's record unless Kane ends up playing pro hockey as long as Gordie Howe did. Still, setting a new record for an American-born duo is something to be proud of, especially since the two lined up as opponents when DeBrincat spent a season with the Ottawa Senators in 2022-23.
It's also worth noting that DeBrincat has not been around for as long as Kane, having debuted in 2017-18 for the Chicago Blackhawks. With DeBrincat in only his ninth season, it makes the record even more impressive.
When you think about some of the greatest American-born players to suit up in an NHL uniform, Kane is one of the first who comes to mind. But now that DeBrincat set this record with Kane, he has one more milestone to put on what is becoming an impressive resume for a player who is only in his age-28 season.
Patrick Kane and Alex DeBrincat may not be done setting milestones in 2025-26
With 494 career goals, Kane is getting close to joining the 500 Goal Club, and he will become just the 50th inductee once he gets there. He's also just 50 points away from 1,400. If Kane stays healthy for the rest of the season, there is a chance he will cross that milestone.
DeBrincat snagged his 500th point last season, but he is well on pace to hit his 300th assist. He needs just 31 more helpers to reach it, and if he keeps up his current pace, DeBrincat will end the year with between 57 and 58 assists. With 12 helpers on the season, there is a great chance he will fly by the 300-assist mark.
It's clear that Kane and DeBrincat have been great players throughout their respective careers. Kane is just padding his Hall of Fame resume at this point, and even if he retired tomorrow without scoring that 500th goal, he's still a shoo-in for the Hall. DeBrincat won't boast Kane's numbers, but since he entered the league in 2017, he has put up consistent production.
Keep an eye on these two as the season progresses, because if the Red Wings are going to bust through their playoff drought, they need Kane and DeBrincat to keep playing at the high-octane level they're known for.