NHL Rumors: Two Teams Who Won’t Be Signing Evander Kane

The Evander Kane sweepstakes are apparently going to be solved pretty quickly as the free agent forward is rumored to be making an announcement on Wednesday afternoon on where he'll be signing his next NHL contract. Two teams apparently out of the race include the Tampa Bay Lightning and Toronto Maple Leafs.

Barring anything unforeseen, I’m told it’s come down to two final clubs in the race to sign FA Evander Kane. There may be a decision this afternoon . @espn @NHLNetwork @NHL #HockeyTwitter

— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) January 12, 2022

Chris Johnston of TSN reported the Maple Leafs have decided not to pursue Kane as Toronto joins a number of teams who feel the risk won't be worth the reward. Meanwhile Edmonton Oilers general manager Ken Holland met with the media on Tuesday and was very clear to have interest in signing Kane and referenced that nobody is perfect and he believes in second chances.

The kicker here is timing. Kane is apparently unvaccinated and would need to have his arrival in Edmonton delayed because of his vaccination status. Certainly something that could potentially play a factor.

Anyone who signs Kane is getting a motivated player who can produce. He was on pace for a career high last season in goals and assists and if he's making way less than his $6 million salary that was on the books for the Sharks, it's a great deal. 

Look for the news on Kane's new team to drop later today and if it's not Edmonton, it's going to be a contending team who feel they are only a couple pieces away from a Stanley Cup.

Photo credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports