With an empty-net goal on January 9, 2026, Patrick Kane became the sixth American-born player in NHL history to reach the 500-goal mark, reaffirming his status among hockey’s greatest.
In the closing minutes of the Detroit Red Wings’ match against the Vancouver Canucks, Kane seized the puck and confidently shot it into the net from the neutral zone, joining the elite club of 500-goal scorers.
This achievement is yet another on his extensive list of accolades, which includes three Stanley Cups, a Hart Trophy, a Conn Smythe Trophy, and a Calder Trophy. Kane’s achievements are highly comparable to other American hockey legends.
Despite a strong resume, Kane faces competition from fellow American icons like Mike Modano, Chris Chelios, and Brian Leetch.
As Kane celebrates this milestone, let’s take a look at the top 10 American players in NHL history:
- Patrick Kane, RW - 500 Goals, 869 Assists, 1,369 Points
- Chris Chelios, D - 185 Goals, 763 Assists, 948 Points
- Mike Modano, C - 561 Goals, 813 Assists, 1,374 Points
- Brian Leetch, D - 247 Goals, 781 Assists, 1,028 Points
- Connor Hellebuyck, G - 331 Wins, 2.56 GAA
- Auston Matthews, C - 422 Goals, 339 Assists
- Pat LaFontaine, C - 468 Goals, 545 Assists
- Phil Housley, D - 338 Goals, 894 Assists
- Matthew Tkachuk, RW - 240 Goals, 396 Assists
- Jack Eichel, C - 252 Goals, 401 Assists
Brett Hull is excluded from this list as he was born in Canada despite representing Team USA.
