Speaking ahead of Saturday's Noth London derby between Spurs and Arsenal, Bassong was full of praise for Kane, saying that Spurs aren't the same side without him.
Kane sat out England's friendlies against Germany and Brazil with a knee injury but is expected to be fit for Saturday's derby, something which Bassong feels could be key.
"I think it is (essential he plays against Arsenal). He's their man striker, he's their goalscorer and he's like a talisman in the team," the 31-year-old told 'Premier League Daily'.
"Especially in a game like the derby, because he's a home-grown player and you can add his spirit into the game and that makes it really important that he features in the game."
Bassong, who last turned out for Championship side Norwich City, also denied suggestions that Mauricio Pochettino's side are a one-man team, saying that it is Kane's team-mates that allow him to be so prolific in front of goal.
"Tottenham without Harry Kane is not the same team, it doesn't mean they're a one-man team, but he's playing a big part in the game," he explained.
"For Harry Kane to score as many goals as he does he needs to have confidence in his team-mates. The offensive player is going to help you win the game because they are the one scoring goals.
"The defenders have a job that is just as important, you're just not under the light as much, what matters the most is the team."