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Elliotte Friedman speculates lengthy Evander Kane absence due to delay in surgery
Edmonton Oilers forward Evander Kane has been dealing with multiple injuries and has decided to undergo surgery this offseason. According to NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman, the decision was delayed due to discussions about who would perform the surgery and when it would take place.
Speaking on the "23 Thoughts Podcast" on Wednesday, Friedman said:
"I think that one of the reasons it's kind of taken until this long is because I think there were some conversations about who is going to do it. They had to decide who was gonna do it and then when was this doctor available?
"I believe that that decision has been made. Eventually, he will have the surgery, and he's gonna be out months, and I'm not talking like one or two months. I think it's gonna be longer than that," he added.
The Oilers haven't confirmed Kane's treatment plan yet, but an announcement is expected soon.
Meanwhile, GM Ken Holland is busy preparing the team for next season, but he is also facing some challenges. After losing to the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Finals, they are still considered strong contenders, though their offseason has not been easy.
Two restricted free agents, Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway have received an offer sheet from the St. Louis Blues. The Oilers now have under a week to decide whether to match these offers or accept draft pick compensation. If they choose to match, they will be $7 million over the salary cap, forcing them to make tough roster changes to comply with league rules.
Ryan Rishaug reports Evander Kane’s recovery timeline uncertain
TSN's Ryan Rishaug reported that Kane’s recovery could take several months, making his return uncertain:
“My sense on Kane is surgery is the most likely course of action. Process is still underway to determine exactly what needs to be done, as there were several significant issues he was dealing with. He is not likely to be ready for training camp, and it could be several months into the season before he’s available," Rishaug said on X/Twitter.
The Oilers now face the challenge of replacing one of its key forwards.
If Evander Kane is sidelined for an extended period, the Oilers could miss a key top-six forward for several months. This would undoubtedly be a setback on the ice, but it might offer some cap relief off it. By placing Kane on Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR), the Oilers could free up $5.25 million in cap space, easing their financial pressures.
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