Evander Kane is set to undergo surgery for a sports hernia, which will keep him off the ice for an extended period, as reported by Sportsnet's Mark Spector. The Oilers' star played through this injury last season.
Oilers' cap flexibility hinges on kane's long-term injured reserve placement
The extent of Kane's absence remains unclear, but Elliotte Friedman previously indicated that the timeline could stretch beyond the start of the season. A confirmed recovery time is still pending. If Kane is placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), his $5.125-million cap hit won't count against the Oilers' salary cap, freeing up much-needed financial flexibility.
Depth signings set to soften the blow of kane's absence
Fortunately for Edmonton, the offseason signings of Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson provide much-needed depth at wing, which should help cover Kane's absence. Still, losing a key player like Kane, who tallied 24 goals and 20 assists in 77 games last season, is a big blow.
Kane's postseason contributions will be missed
Kane's impact in the playoffs was equally crucial, adding eight points in 20 postseason games for the Oilers. With two years left on his contract, the Oilers will hope for a full recovery so he can return to his usual form once he heals.