Patrick Kane, the former Chicago Blackhawks star, recently shared his views on Jeff Blashill’s role as the new head coach of the team. Kane highlighted the impact Blashill is expected to have on the Blackhawks’ young roster as they rebuild their squad.
Speaking during the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast on August 5, Kane emphasized his belief that Blashill will bring a strong sense of accountability to the players under his guidance.
Patrick Kane Emphasizes Blashill’s Focus on Player Accountability
Kane clearly stated,
“I think first and foremost, he’s going to be someone that’s going to, you know, hold the players accountable.”
This focus on responsibility is critical as the Blackhawks look to establish a disciplined, effective team culture. Kane’s experience with Blashill during international competitions informs his confidence in the coach’s methods.
Having been coached by Blashill at the World Championships with Team USA, Kane recalled a memorable moment in a video session where Blashill directly addressed him, making it clear that no player, regardless of status, is exempt from expectations.
“I played for him in two world championships, and I remember, like, one of our first video sessions, he came like, right at me. And, you know, really, I think it’s a good message too, right? Like you, you come at some of your top players and you realize, like, okay, like, this guy’s not gonna be able to get away with something, or I can’t do that just because of, you know, who I am or, you know, the way I play.” —Patrick Kane, Former NHL Player
Kane praised Blashill’s hockey acumen and toughness, emphasizing the importance of those qualities for managing a team made up of many young, developing players.
“So, he’s got a great hockey mind, you know, he’s going to be a tough coach, and I think for, you know, a younger team, to make sure guys are doing the right things and playing the right way.” —Patrick Kane, Former NHL Player
The History of Collaboration Between Patrick Kane and Jeff Blashill on Team USA
Patrick Kane and Jeff Blashill share a history from their time with Team USA at the World Championships, which has helped Kane form his reliable perspective on Blashill’s coaching style. Their first encounter was during the 2008 IIHF World Championships in Canada. As a skilled forward, Kane contributed significantly with three goals and ten points over seven games, while Blashill served as an assistant coach under head coach John Tortorella.
Their paths crossed again a decade later at the 2018 World Championships held in Denmark, when Blashill was the head coach of Team USA. At that time, Kane, despite his team’s NHL struggles, was named captain to lead a youthful squad including emerging talents like Casey Mittelstadt and Dylan Larkin.
Under Blashill’s leadership, the American team secured a third-place finish. After a tough 6-0 loss to Sweden in the semifinals—who eventually won the gold medal—the US bounced back to defeat Canada 4-1 in the bronze medal game. Kane dominated the tournament, finishing as the leading scorer with eight goals and twelve assists for a total of 20 points in ten games.
Blashill’s Role in Shaping the Blackhawks’ Future
Entering his new position at the Blackhawks, Jeff Blashill faces the challenge of guiding a young core through a rebuilding phase. Although playoff contention is not expected soon, Blashill’s experience and demanding approach are seen as vital for establishing a foundation that may support a sustained playoff streak in the coming years.
Kane’s reflections suggest that Blashill’s insistence on accountability and his strategic understanding of the game will play a critical role in developing the Blackhawks’ talent and culture. This disciplined framework aims to prepare the team for future success once their developmental phase matures.