This superstar winger has long been linked to Dallas... will it finally happen?

Patrick Kane is back with the Detroit Red Wings on a short-term deal, but his contract structure leaves the door open for a midseason trade, and the Dallas Stars could be one of the teams watching closely.

Kane signed a one-year, $3 million extension with Detroit this summer, ending speculation that Dallas might pursue him in free agency. But, the short-term deal and manageable cap hit make him a natural candidate for a playoff-bound team to chase later in the season.

For the Stars, who already boast a strong core led by Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and Miro Heiskanen, the addition of Kane could give them an extra scoring punch in the postseason.

He remains productive, coming off a 59-point campaign in 72 games last year, and his experience as a three-time Stanley Cup champion brings another layer of value.

Why Patrick Kane could still be in play for the Dallas Stars

Kane's deal with Detroit is team-friendly, making it easier for contenders to call if the Red Wings drift out of the playoff race.

The Stars, who are in win-now mode, have been linked to him in past offseasons and could circle back if they feel an offensive spark is needed down the stretch.

"He just signed, but Kane is still trade bait given his age, contract, and value to contenders," one analyst explained.

Cap space remains the biggest hurdle for Dallas, especially with Thomas Harley's next deal and Jason Robertson's contract situation on the horizon. But with creativity and retained salary, Kane could still be a fit.

I believe fans in Dallas would welcome the move, because adding a player with Kane's pedigree before the deadline would instantly signal that the Stars are pushing all-in.