Get ready for a thrilling chapter in hockey history!
The Record-Breaking Chase
In a recent interview with NHL.com, Mike Modano, a legendary center and Hockey Hall of Famer, shared his thoughts on the impending moment when Patrick Kane breaks his record for most points by a U.S.-born player in the NHL. With Kane just 20 points away from the milestone, Modano humorously acknowledges, “The end is coming here soon.”
Kane, a 37-year-old forward, is on a steady path to achieving this feat early next year. His current pace, with 12 points in 14 games for the Detroit Red Wings, averages at 0.86 points per game. Modano, who has held the record since 2007, reflects on the excitement and pressure of the chase, especially when the gap narrows to single digits.
But here’s where it gets controversial… Modano reveals his desire to be present when Kane breaks the record, stating, “If they ask me to be there, yeah. I’d love to be there and definitely would make the effort.” This raises the question: Should record-holders be present for their records being broken?
The Record’s Legacy
Modano’s record has stood for an impressive 18 years, surpassing the previous holders, Phil Housley and Joe Mullen. When asked about the significance of holding the record for so long, Modano expresses, “It’s been a nice little run. I think I got more out of that career than I ever imagined.”
And this is the part most people miss… Modano also highlights the impact of labor disputes, wondering about the potential impact on his record if not for the missed games.
A Presidential Call
One of the most memorable moments for Modano was the phone call he received from President George W. Bush after breaking the record. He recalls, “The operator came through, saying, ‘This is Air Force One.’ I thought, ‘Who’s pulling this joke on me?’ And then President Bush gets on the phone.” This unexpected call is a testament to the record’s national significance.
The Olympic Spirit
Modano, a three-time Olympian, is excited about NHL players returning to the Olympics for the first time since 2014. He believes it will be a great boost for the game, especially after the hype generated by the 4 Nations Face-Off.
When asked about the U.S. team’s chances, Modano emphasizes the importance of staying healthy and having a strong start. He adds, “They’ve got phenomenal goaltending, toughness, and grit. If they can keep that up, they should be in good shape.”
The Stars’ Success
The Dallas Stars, Modano’s former team, have been on a roll, making the Western Conference Final three years in a row and currently sitting second in the Central Division. Their comeback wins, especially in the third period, showcase their resilience. Modano comments, “They’ve got so many weapons, great goaltending, and good defense. I feel like they’re in a good position.”
The Goal-Scoring Record
While Kane is closing in on Modano’s points record, Modano still holds a firm grip on the NHL record for goals by a U.S.-born player. With 561 goals, he’s well ahead of the second-place Keith Tkachuk (538 goals). Modano believes his goal-scoring record might be harder to break, stating, “That might be one that’s a little farther down the road.”
So, will anyone ever catch Modano in the goal-scoring record? What do you think? Join the discussion in the comments and share your thoughts on these iconic records and the future of U.S. hockey!