Evander Kane's new injury timeline presents huge problem for the Oilers
Evander Kane's rehabilitation from injury has been going better than expected, but his return to the ice presents unforeseen issues for the Oilers salary cap.
It's no secret by now that Edmonton Oilers sniper Evander Kane underwent surgery to fix multiple abdominal tears and a sports hernia. Initially, Evander Kane wasn't' expected to return until the NHL trade deadline. Now, new reports from hockey insider Kevin Weekes indicate that Evander Kane will be returning sometime early 2025.
Although having Evander Kane back on the ice may seem like a huge relief for some, it presents massive challenges for GM Stan Bowman. Simply put, if Evander Kane were to come back in January, the Oilers can't afford it. Finn Marceau from the Hockey news weighs in on the situation.
With just under $1.5 million in cap space right now and a projected $4.8 million available at the trade deadline in March, the Oilers can't welcome Kane back without making a corresponding move to clear cap space, thereby weakening the team.
The idea of Evander Kane coming back to the ice mid season has sparked quite a bit of conversation in Oil Country. The 33 year sniper is coming off a massive surgery, with big questions surrounding his conditioning and fitness level. If the Oilers were to pull the trigger on a trade, or place a promising player on waivers to clear cap space, the results could seriously jeopardize the team if Kane fails to come in NHL form.
As per Finn Marceau, It wouldn't surprise me at all if we still don't see Kane hit the ice during the regular season if the Oilers can swing it. April is still "early 2025", right?
Do you think the Edmonton Oilers should hold off on bringing Kane back to the lineup if possible? Answer our Oilers Insider poll to have your say!
| POLL | ||
Do you think the Edmonton Oilers should hold off on bringing Kane back to the lineup if possible? | ||
| Yes | 80 | 61.1 % |
| No | 51 | 38.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
