Patrick Kane’s return to Chicago has already become one of the biggest stories of the NHL offseason.
The future Hall of Famer signed a two-year contract worth $16 million to return to the franchise where he spent 16 seasons, won three Stanley Cups, and became one of the greatest players in Blackhawks history.
But for Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk, Kane’s return is about more than nostalgia. He believes the veteran winger could help unlock another level in Connor Bedard’s game.
Matthew Tkachuk Excited About Connor Bedard-Patrick Kane Team-Up
After spending time with the New York Rangers and Detroit Red Wings, Kane is heading back to Chicago, and the Tkachuk brothers could hardly contain their excitement.
Matthew Tkachuk praised both the player and the organization. “Kane back to Chicago… I think when he’s there, and they’re on the up like they are, some of the best eras in hockey are when he’s been cooking with the Hawks, so I just think that’s so good. I’m so excited as a fan that used to watch him play nightly for them. I’m really excited to watch him again this year,” Matthew said.
The Kane-Bedard connection is gonna be a fun one to watch in Chicago this season 👀🧬 pic.twitter.com/CrpmMsdPSf
— Wingmen with Matthew and Brady Tkachuk (@Wingmenpod) July 29, 2026
Brady Tkachuk shared a similar view. “Showtime back in Chicago, like, what’s better than that? I feel like that’s going to be the next dynamic duo for the next little bit,” Brady said.
Matthew then took things a step further, saying, “It’s going to be like Kane and Panarin.”
That is lofty praise considering what Kane and Artemi Panarin accomplished together during their time in Chicago.
The pair instantly developed remarkable chemistry after Panarin arrived during the 2015-16 season. Their creativity, vision, and passing ability made them one of the league’s most dangerous combinations, and together they produced 346 points in just two seasons.
During that unforgettable 2015-16 campaign, Kane won the Hart Trophy, the Art Ross Trophy, and the Ted Lindsay Award after recording 106 points. Panarin, meanwhile, captured the Calder Trophy after finishing with 77 points in his rookie season.
Why Kane Could Be the Perfect Fit for Bedard
The comparison makes sense when you look at the skill sets involved.
Kane remains one of the most gifted playmakers of his generation, while Bedard possesses one of the quickest and most accurate releases in hockey. Putting the two together could create constant problems for opposing defenses.
The partnership also carries an emotional element.
As a young player, Bedard looked up to Kane and even copied his famous “heartbreaker” celebration. Now the two stars will have the opportunity to share the ice and punish defenses.
The Blackhawks are also hoping Kane’s experience will help accelerate the development of several young players, including Bedard, Frank Nazar, and Artyom Levshunov.
At 37 years old, Kane may no longer be in his prime, but he is still an elite offensive player. He finished last season with 57 points in 67 games and brings invaluable leadership to a young Chicago team eager to return to playoff contention.
If Matthew Tkachuk’s prediction turns out to be accurate, the Blackhawks could soon have another dynamic duo on their hands.
