Evander Kane Suspended For 21 Games For Violating COVID-19 Protocol
The NHL announced on Monday that San Jose Sharks forward Evander Kane has been suspended without pay for 21 games for violating COVID-19 protocol.
A couple of weeks ago, ESPN reported that the NHL was investigating Kane for allegations that he used a fake COVID-19 vaccination card, which is illegal in both Canada and the United States and is against NHL rules.
#NHL announces a 21-game suspension of #sjsharks Evander Kane for “an established violation of Covid-19 protocol.”
The league also says its investigation into allegations of domestic abuse by his ex-wife “could not be substantiated.” pic.twitter.com/HLJTAi5VJA
The statement from the NHL also stated that the league’s investigation into allegations of domestic abuse made against Kane from his estranged wife, Deanna, could not be substantiated. The NHL said there would be no further comment on the matter.
Kane was left off of the Sharks’ opening night roster, noting that he “is considered a non-roster player pending completion of the NHL’s investigation.”
Given the completion of the NHL’s investigation surrounding Kane’s domestic abuse allegations, he would be able to return to the Sharks at the end of this 21-game suspension for using a fake COVID-19 vaccine card.
Kane led the Sharks with 22 goals and 49 points in 2021 and has three years left on his contract after this one with a $7,000,000 annual cap hit.
Back in August, Kevin Kurz reported in The Athletic that the Sharks were trying to trade Kane due to a strained relationship with many of his teammates.
“According to one source, the frustration with Kane stemmed from a general “disrespect for team rules,” such as being late for practices and games.
‘And zero consequences came, which caused a ripple effect with other, younger guys,’ added the source. According to another source: ‘It wasn’t easy dealing with him this season.'”