Kane: Time To 'Take The Next Step To That Elite Level'
By Adam Hoge-
CHICAGO (CBS) Not only is Patrick Kane back, but he's talking a big game.
The Blackhawks forward is still wearing a splint on his injured wrist, but the cast is off and he will practicing Saturday at the United Center.
"I feel really good," Kane said Friday at Blackhawks Media Day. "I got it checked out yesterday and I really have no limitations right now. I think we are going to be precautionary about putting myself right into contact right away but I'll be skating twice a day (in) practice."
LISTEN: Patrick Kane Talks To Reporters At Blackhawks Media Day
Podcast
Kane said he's been shooting and the only thing left to work on is his range of motion. He added that if it was the middle of the season and there was a game tonight, he could play.
Kane does not expect his offseason setback to affect him this season. In fact, he says he wants to take his game to the next level.
"It's probably about that time," Kane said. "I know it's kind of crazy to think that I'm still 22 and going into my fifth season, but time has been flying by and I think it's about that time that I really take the next step to that elite level."
Kane said his teammates and coaches have been urging him to take that next step.
"It seems like everyone has been saying that to me this summer, 'All right, you've done well your first four years, now let's really take that step to the next level and become one of the best players in the league.' And that's what I want to do still," Kane said.
It's likely those motivational words from his teammates and coaches have as much to do with Kane's career off the ice as it does on the ice. There have been whispers that the forward has matured off the ice and is fully committed to getting better as a hockey player.
"It's great to hear him talking about taking strides and you know, he's growing up, our little Kaner. So that's good," captain Jonathan Toews said in what appear to be a half-joking, half-serious comment.
We'll find out soon how much Kane has really matured.
For more from Blackhawks Media Day, follow Adam on Twitter (@AdamHogeCBS).
