McDavid calls Kane a ‘great player’ but premature to comment on possibility of him joining Oilers
Global News
Ever since the San Jose Sharks took steps to try to terminate Evander Kane's contract this weekend, speculation has been rampant about what team the winger might sign with.
As the COVID-19 virus winds its way through the Edmonton Oilers‘ lineup and the pandemic prompts the postponement of a number of the team’s home games, it was speculation about a potential high-profile addition to the roster and not the coronavirus’ impact on the hockey club that captain Connor McDavid was asked about most at a media availability on Wednesday.
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“Right now it’s all speculation,” the co-leader of the NHL‘s regular season points-scoring race said when asked about the possibility of the team signing Evander Kane, a player known for his goal-scoring ability and grit as much as for recent criticism over his conduct off the ice.
“Truthfully, I don’t think that’s a bridge we need to cross until something is more official,” he said when asked whether fans should be concerned about how the Oilers’ locker-room and public image could be affected by signing Kane.
Ever since the San Jose Sharks took steps to try to terminate Kane’s contract this weekend, alleging he once again violated COVID-19 protocols, speculation has been rampant about what team the rugged but skilled winger might sign with, or if he signs with another NHL team at all.
When asked about Kane on Tuesday, Oilers general manager Ken Holland confirmed he has had discussions with Kane’s agent, saying, “as a manager, it’s my responsibility to investigate every situation.”
While Holland did not express how much interest the Oilers have in Kane or what his level of interest in coming to Alberta may be, he said he believes in second chances for people if they take steps to learn from their mistakes and make changes.
“Obviously Evander’s an amazing player and he’s had lots of success over the last couple of years, and whatever else has been going on is not really something that I look into much,” McDavid said Wednesday. “Obviously there’s lots of talk going around. I’ve talked to Kenny.