As a berth in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs lies within grasp, no one on the Detroit Red Wings may want to get in more so than star forward Patrick Kane.
The three-time Stanley Cup champion is in line to receive a rare bonus if Detroit is to creep into a playoff spot.
Why Patrick Kane is Eligible for Exclusive NHL Contract Bonuses
It is rare for players to be eligible to receive performance- or game-based contract bonuses after entry-level deals.
While unique, The Athletic’s Chris Johnston describes the specific instances that allow veteran players to earn those bonuses.
“Those aged 35 or older are eligible to receive them, as are players with 400 games of NHL experience who are signing a one-year contract coming off a long-term injury,” said Johnston.
Thus far in 2025-26, the 37-year-old has eclipsed three out of a potential six bonuses. The all-time leading point-getter in United States history has played in 56 games, earning $2.5 million for the first 10, and two $250,000 paydays for surpassing 30 and 50 games, respectively.
With $3 million already in his pocket, the longtime Chicago Blackhawk has the potential to tally an additional $1 million based on Detroit’s possible playoff progression.
Simply earning a playoff berth will add $500,000 to Kane’s bank account. Beyond that, the 5-foot-10 sniper can earn $250,000 more for each round the Red Wings advance up until a potential conference finals appearance.
While Kane’s durability has been impressive, the production he’s had at his age may be even more eye-opening. In his 19th season, “Showtime” ranks among the top point-getters among active skaters aged 35 or older. Using the same age metric, the former first overall pick has tallied 30 assists this season.
At 84 points, Detroit currently sits one point behind the Ottawa Senators for the Eastern Conference’s second wild-card spot. The Red Wings have 11 games remaining, with only three against teams presumably out of the playoff race (New York Rangers, Florida, and New Jersey).
Unfortunately for Motown faithful, the club dropped a vital contest Tuesday at the hands of the Ottawa Senators, who jumped them in the playoff race. In their last 10 games, Detroit has collected just 8 points, going 3-5-2. As their playoff hopes dwindle, captain Dylan Larkin understands fans’ frustrations.
“The room is mad, the guys are mad. That was a big game for our hockey team.”
Despite Dylan Larkin’s return, the Red Wings were dealt a costly loss by the Senators, who have had their number in March games over the last few seasons. #LGRW #RedWings https://t.co/QTgGe3pY1g
— Michael Whitaker (@mwhitaker_89) March 25, 2026
Red Wings beat writer Michael Whitaker echoed the words of the 2026 Gold Medal winner in an X post.
“The room is mad, the guys are mad,” said Larkin. “That was a big game for our hockey team.”
Will the Red Wings be able to rally and return to the playoffs for the first time in 10 years, or will their chances crumble along with Kane’s potential bonuses?
