Evander Kane's status with Sharks still uncertain as suspension ends
The NHL season is only about a quarter of the way finished, but it feels like Evander Kane has been away from the San Jose Sharks for decades.
Now, the embattled winger is about to come off of a 21-game suspension for violating the league's COVID-19 safety protocols. But it still isn't clear when -- or if -- Kane will rejoin the team as head coach Bob Boughner gets the team ready to wrap up a homestand ahead of a five-game road trip that starts this Sunday in Chicago.
The 30-year-old's status with the team has been veiled in secrecy since before the regular season began. Following allegations of domestic abuse and illegally throwing hockey games made by his estranged wife, Anna, Kane has been in the spotlight but reportedly not in contact with any of his teammates.
Kane released an apology via the NHL Players Association following the league's decision to suspend him for breaking COVID protocol but has denied all other wrong-doing. The statement is the only record, as of now, of any contact Kane has made with Team Teal since the end of the last season.
The Vancouver native reportedly started skating on his own at the Sharks' practice facility in San Jose and is not participating in team activities.
The Sharks host the Maple Leafs on Friday before hitting the road. It remains to be seen if the team sheds more light on the Kane situation while the Sharks are traveling.
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