The NHL trade rumor mill is buzzing as the Edmonton Oilers are reportedly testing the waters for a potential trade involving forward Evander Kane. With his $20.5 million contract and a $5.125 million annual cap hit, Kane’s situation has drawn attention from analysts and insiders alike.
According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the Oilers are actively gauging interest from teams after Kane’s full no-movement clause expired on Friday, transitioning to a 16-team approved trade list. This development opens the door for possible trade negotiations, though Kane’s injury status complicates matters.
Oilers Looking to Free Up Cap Space
Oilers’ General Manager Stan Bowman and his team have begun exploring trade possibilities, and with the NHL trade deadline approaching, Edmonton’s salary cap flexibility remains a key concern. Kane underwent abdominal surgery in September and knee surgery in January, making his return timeline uncertain.
Friedman shed light on the Oilers’ approach, stating:
“Last night Evander Kane’s no-trade protection evaporated. He no longer has a full no-trade clause, it’s a partial one. The Oilers are going through those teams, trying to see what the market could be for him. Right now, the injury situation is still uncertain. We don’t have a timeline, but the Oilers are trying to see if there’s a market for Kane because if they do decide to go in that direction, it could open up more cap room for themselves.”
This aligns with Edmonton’s broader strategy, as the team seeks financial flexibility to make necessary roster adjustments before the trade deadline.
Kane’s Production Declining?
Once a dynamic offensive force, Evander Kane’s production took a dip last season. In 77 games, he tallied 24 goals and 44 points, numbers that fall below his career averages. His postseason performance also left something to be desired, with four goals and eight points in 20 games. Additionally, injuries forced him to miss the last five games of the Stanley Cup Finals, further fueling speculation about his long-term durability.
Cap Constraints and LTIR Impact
One of the biggest factors in Edmonton’s decision-making is the LTIR (Long-Term Injured Reserve) cap implications. While Kane remains on LTIR, the Oilers can exceed the salary cap by his $5.125 million cap hit. However, if he returns during the regular season, they must become cap-compliant, potentially limiting their ability to make further roster moves.
NHL insider Frank Seravalli previously reported that the Oilers are unlikely to make a major goalie acquisition due to these financial restrictions. During an interview with Bob Stauffer, Seravalli emphasized the Oilers’ hesitancy to spend before gaining clarity on Kane’s status.
“It’s been a lengthy and long road of recovery with multiple different … surgeries for Evander Kane… But really, he’s going on LTIR, isn’t that right? And I’m like, no, that’s not the truth. The truth is the Oilers, they don’t feel very comfortable about this situation one way or the other. And in the end, what it really might come down to is the Oilers don’t have that LTIR money to spend, and they could only really make one acquisition.”
What’s Next for Edmonton?
The Oilers are currently second in the Pacific Division with a 35-21-4 record, recently breaking a five-game losing streak with a 3-1 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes. With the playoffs looming, Edmonton must make calculated decisions regarding their roster.
If Kane remains on LTIR long-term, the Oilers could utilize his cap relief to strengthen other areas of their lineup. However, if he returns before the postseason, Edmonton will need to ensure they have the financial flexibility to accommodate his contract.
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Oilers and whether they decide to move on from Evander Kane or bet on his return to form. Will they find a trade partner? Or will Kane remain in Edmonton for another playoff push? Stay tuned.
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