NHL reportedly investigating Evander Kane for potential COVID-19 protocol violation

The NHL is reportedly looking into the possibility that San Jose Sharks forward Evander Kane violated the league's COVID-19 protocols, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.

Although Kane was cleared in a gambling investigation last week, the NHL continues to focus on him over allegations in two subsequent probes.

Both allege potential wrongdoing by Kane. One involves serious allegations relating to his past behavior toward his wife and the other involves allegations of inappropriate behavior potentially jeopardizing the health and safety of his Sharks teammates and club staff members. 

The NHL has not created specific penalties for COVID-19 protocol violations despite enacting new protocols. The league began focusing on Kane in July after his wife accused him of betting on his own games.

Kane denied the allegations before the league cleared him. He previously admitted to a gambling addiction and filed for bankruptcy in January. 

The 30-year-old is under contract with the Sharks through 2024-25. He tallied 22 goals and 27 assists in 56 games last season. 

Kane joined the Sharks during the 2017-18 season after spending time with the Buffalo Sabres and Winnipeg Jets.