Oilers winger Evander Kane, who recently underwent major surgery, is set to make his return to the lineup later this season, according to head coach Kris Knoblauch. Insider Elliotte Friedman reports that Kane is expected to be ready by January or February next year.
Kane revealed that he had been playing through significant injuries during much of the regular season and playoffs, including two hernias, two torn abductors, and two torn abdominal muscles. The surgery to address these six separate muscle injuries raised concerns among fans about the potential length of his absence. However, Kane recently provided an update on social media, assuring everyone of his progress in rehab.
Once Kane returns, he could be fully healthy for the first time in over a year, which would be a significant boost for the Oilers as they push toward the playoffs. Despite his injuries last season, Kane managed to score 24 goals and lead the team in hits. Now 33 years old and signed for the next two years at $5.125 million per season, Kane has been the subject of trade rumors due to the Oilers’ salary cap challenges. However, with the team now under the cap without placing Kane on LTIR, they’ll have the flexibility to activate him when he’s ready.
If Edmonton looks to make a move for a top-four defenseman before the trade deadline, they could be adding strength on both ends of the ice with Kane’s return to full health, potentially making them a formidable force heading into the postseason.
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