The offseason is wonderful, isn’t it? All the draft, free agency and draft rumours create endless speculation and hype among the fans of the NHL. The Oilers, whose season ended mere days ago, are in tight cap crunch heading into July 1. They need to create cap room to sign some of their unrestricted free agents, as well as go out and spend to improve the team. Guys like Jack Campbell and Cody Ceci are likely to be gone, but there’s another name out there in the rumour mill.
Trusted sources of The Oil Rig have indicated that Evander Kane is likely to be dealt before Monday, July 1, when Free Agency Frenzy opens. Kane has two years left remaining on his contract with an AAV of $5.125M. The important thing is that Kane controls his destiny since he has a no-movement clause. From all reports, Kane is willing to waive it to accommodate a move.
Evander came into Edmonton midway through the 2021–22 season due to a contract termination with the San Jose Sharks. Kane went on a heater scoring 22 goals in 43 regular season games and 13 in the playoffs. In a game against Tampa Bay, he sliced his wrist open and missed two months before returning. Kane hasn’t been that effective since the injury going on long dry spells during the seasons and being very inconsistent.
Kane moving not only frees up $5.125M in cap space, but also another top-six winger spot for Draisaitl. Could this cap room be freed up to use on Jake DeBrusk? Time will tell.
What does a Kane trade look like?
I don’t expect a huge return on Kane if/when he is dealt. I think he definitely adds value to any team, but at his age, contract, and history, I wouldn’t bank on a big return. My best guess is that the Oilers will either acquire a mid-round pick or future considerations in return.
Enjoy the draft and weekend, Oiler fans. July 1 is close by and it’s an exciting time to be a hockey fan.
Going up against Frank Seravalli’s reporting- bold strategy, Cotton