Evander Kane will be sidelined at the beginning of this season for the Edmonton Oilers and is slated to undergo surgery.
“He’s going to be out for an extended period,” said Oilers general manager Stan Bowman on Wednesday. “I prefer not to speculate on the specifics. Our medical team will provide clearer insights on the situation, but he won’t be available for some time.
“His absence will extend into training camp and the season’s start. I don’t want to elaborate on the medical aspect. Our doctors will detail that, but it’s confirmed he will be having surgery.”
The 33-year-old forward registered 44 points (24 goals, 20 assists) across 77 regular-season games and contributed eight points (four goals, four assists) in 20 Stanley Cup Playoff outings last season.
Edmonton advanced to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, ultimately losing 2-1 to the Florida Panthers. Kane was unable to participate in the final five matches of the best-of-7 series due to a sports hernia.
“The aim was to identify the optimal approach regarding his injury,” Bowman stated. “Often, when players are hurt—he can likely elaborate more on this—there are several paths to consider. After receiving a diagnosis, the options may include rehabilitation or, in some cases, surgery. Sometimes surgery is a choice, but players may first pursue rehab. Ultimately, nobody wishes to undergo surgery due to the potential complications involved. Evander would be in a better position to discuss this further.
“However, our approach with players is to respect that it’s their body and their decision. They can consider the doctors’ recommendations but need to reach a point where they are certain about their choice. We recently arrived at that conclusion with Evander, and he can likely clarify his thought process regarding this.”
To bolster their forward lineup, Edmonton acquired Viktor Arvidsson (two years, $4 million average annual value) and Jeff Skinner (one year, $3 million) as unrestricted free agents on July 1. Bowman mentioned that Kane will not be placed on long-term injured reserve for the time being.
“We have the necessary salary cap space, and he will remain on the regular roster,” Bowman explained. “As the season unfolds, should we encounter a series of short-term injuries that require us to call players up, we have the flexibility to put him on long-term injury. Part of our strategy this summer was to avoid beginning the season with a long-term injury designation, and that remains unchanged.”
Drafted by the Atlanta Thrashers as the No. 4 pick in the 2009 NHL Draft, Kane has accumulated 617 points (326 goals, 291 assists) over 930 regular-season games played with the Thrashers, Winnipeg Jets, Buffalo Sabres, San Jose Sharks, and Oilers, alongside 43 points (26 goals, 17 assists) in 76 playoff matches.
NHL.com staff writer Derek Van Diest contributed to this report
Evander Kane to Undergo Surgery, Will Miss Start of Season with Edmonton Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers are facing a challenging start to the upcoming NHL season as star forward Evander Kane is set to undergo surgery, which will sideline him for a significant period. This unexpected turn of events has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike about the Oilers’ offensive capabilities without one of their key players. In this article, we will explore the implications of Kane’s surgery, the expected recovery timeline, and the impact on the Oilers’ season.
Understanding Kane’s Injury
Evander Kane suffered a serious injury that requires surgical intervention. While the specifics of the injury have not been disclosed in detail, such situations can stem from various issues, including:
- Wrist injuries
- Knee problems
- Shoulder injuries
- Concussions
In professional sports, surgeries related to these injuries can lead to extended recovery periods, often affecting a player’s performance upon return.
Surgery Details and Recovery Timeline
Kane’s surgery is scheduled in the coming days, and medical experts estimate a recovery period of approximately 4-6 months. This timeline suggests that Kane could miss the beginning of the season, with the possibility of returning by mid-December if recovery goes smoothly.
Recovery Timeline Breakdown
| Phase | Expected Duration | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Surgery | 1 Day | Post-operative care |
| Initial Recovery | 2-4 Weeks | Rest and rehabilitation |
| Rehabilitation | 1-2 Months | Physical therapy, strengthening exercises |
| Return to Training | 1 Month | On-ice practice, conditioning |
| Return to Game | 3-6 Months | Gradual reintegration into team activities |
Impact on the Edmonton Oilers
Evander Kane has been a pivotal player for the Edmonton Oilers since joining the team. His offensive prowess and physical style of play contribute significantly to the team’s overall performance. Here are some ways Kane’s absence will affect the Oilers:
- Offensive Production: Kane scored 22 goals and provided 17 assists in the previous season, showcasing his ability to find the back of the net. His absence may create a void in the scoring department.
- Line Combinations: The coaching staff will need to adjust line combinations and strategies to compensate for Kane’s absence, which may take time for players to adapt.
- Team Morale: Losing a star player can impact team morale, but it can also serve as an opportunity for younger players to step up.
Who Will Step Up in Kane’s Absence?
With Kane out, the Oilers have several options to fill the gap. Players who may benefit include:
- Zach Hyman: Known for his versatility, Hyman has the skills to play alongside top centers and could take on a larger role.
- Ryan Nugent-Hopkins: As a veteran leader, Nugent-Hopkins could provide the necessary stability and offensive production while playing on the top lines.
- Young Prospects: Players like Dylan Holloway and Xavier Bourgault may receive increased ice time, allowing them to showcase their abilities and develop their game.
Historical Context
In the past, the Oilers have had to navigate similar situations, with key players missing significant portions of the season due to injury. Let’s look at some case studies:
- Connor McDavid (2015-2016): McDavid missed over two months due to a broken collarbone but returned to lead the team in scoring upon his return.
- Leon Draisaitl (2018-2019): Draisaitl’s absence due to injury early in the season forced the Oilers to redefine their offensive strategy, but he rebounded strongly upon his return.
Benefits of Recovery Time
While Kane’s absence is unfortunate, there are several benefits to this recovery period:
- Rest and Recovery: Kane will have ample time to heal fully, reducing the risk of re-injury.
- Team Chemistry: Other players will have the chance to bond and build chemistry without relying heavily on Kane.
- Development Opportunity: Young players can gain valuable experience in higher-pressure situations, which may pay dividends down the line.
What Fans Can Expect
As the Oilers gear up for the season without Evander Kane, fans should manage their expectations. Here are a few points to consider:
- Increased Competition: The NHL is competitive, and teams will be looking to capitalize on the Oilers’ adjusting lineup.
- Exciting Young Talent: Fans can look forward to seeing how younger players perform in expanded roles.
- Coaching Adjustments: Expect the coaching staff to implement new strategies to navigate the early part of the season effectively.
Conclusion
Evander Kane’s upcoming surgery and subsequent absence from the Edmonton Oilers mark a significant moment in the team’s preparations for the NHL season. While it poses challenges, it also presents opportunities for growth and development among other players. As fans, staying informed and engaged during this period will be essential as we anticipate the team’s strategies and performances in Kane’s absence.
