After the Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday, the Montreal Canadiens will again receive a formidable opponent from the National Hockey League (NHL) on Thursday, the New York Rangers and their new striker Patrick Kane, who is trying to find his bearings.
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Acquired from the Chicago Blackhawks on February 28, the 34-year-old veteran had time to play two games before participating in a first full practice with the Blueshirts on Tuesday. His presence on the ice for almost an hour seems to have been beneficial, as he was able to familiarize himself more with the strategies of the team, even if he had the right to a first glimpse of a game situation.
Except that losses at the hands of the Ottawa Senators on Thursday and the Boston Bruins on Saturday show that there are adjustments to be made. Kane also displays a differential of -4 in the New York uniform and remains in search of a first point.
“The earliest would be best. […] The other night I told the guys this is a great team. They said yes and said it was mine now, he said, as reported by NHL.com. I want to be on target here, but I’ve always been at my best when I demanded the puck. I want the disc, more often than the others. I try to find the right balance.”
Lots to do, everywhere
So adaptation has to happen on and off the ice. Kane said he could find a new home soon, he who stayed at the hotel Sunday and Monday. In short, the change of scenery means that there will be many decisions to be made and changes in all spheres of his personal and professional life.
“When you come to a new organization and a good roster with great athletes that you’re going to rub shoulders with, you expect a lot from yourself,” he said. In the first games, I probably could have done a little better. Nevertheless, you have to look back and take into account what happened in the last few weeks: I lived 16 years in the same place and I have to get acquainted with a new club. I try to give myself a little respite, but as time goes on, you have to put yourself back more and more.
“I try not to put my feet on other people’s toes,” he added. If I am myself and stick to my game, it will be better. That’s why they acquired me, first and foremost.”
Claiming 45 points in 56 outings this season, Kane had scored ten in his last four games with the Hawks.
- With Jaroslav Halak in goal, the Rangers won 4-1 on their first visit of the campaign to the Bell Center on January 5. However, the Habs got revenge by winning 2-1 at the expense of Igor Shesterkin 10 days later at Madison Square Garden.