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As early free agency trades wrap up, sources confirm that Edmonton Oilers president and interim GM Jeff Jackson has issues with Evander Kane.

The Edmonton Oilers had struggled with Evander Kane throughout the 2023-24 regular and postseason. Aside from his history of sparring or simply not gelling with other players, interim GM Jeff Jackson shared that the 32-year-old forward suffered injuries that required constant medical support.
“He was going through an issue with his hip. We are going through the process to see what will occur and he is getting the best care and advice from our doctors. We will discuss options with him and his agent (Dan Milstein), and get second opinions. That is where we are at and nothing is planned ( surgery or just rest/rehab) at this point.”

With the player’s combined lack of synergy and excess of ailments, many believe this player will not be back on the Oilers roster at the start of the upcoming NHL season. Additionally, with the low availability of cap space left in Edmonton, many believe he is, or at least should be, headed towards long-term injured reserve.

“Evander Kane to LTIR seems like such an obvious decision

Take the year to heal injuries that needed 6-8 shots, Sports hernia, Wrist, Hip.

Get paid to prep what’s next after hockey. Young family, fashion brand, charity

Check in for playoffs.”

However, Kane would also have to be content with this. He has previously expressed a desire for more ice time. Without this provision in Edmonton, Kane could look to waive his no-trade clause, though he has not publicly clarified any intentions to do so.

“Some speculation out there about the Oilers and Evander Kane. As of right now, can confirm they have not asked him to waive his no trade at any point.”

With a not insignificant amount of time before the start of the next regular season, the Edmonton Oilers still have time to put together a Stanley Cup-winning team. However, whether Evander Kane will be part of it will have to wait for further developments.