Throughout the last month, it's been commonplace for Evander Kane to be absent from most practices and morning skates. In that time too, his effectiveness in games has steadily decreased. In his last 11 games, Kane has just 2 goals and three points, and his ice time has decreased in the last few games.
It's been reported under the radar at times that Kane is dealing with a significant nagging injury that's kept him out of those practices, but as he's been battling through and playing hurt, the injury has not been disclosed until now. Moments ago, Oilers' writer Mark Spector confirmed that Kane is dealing with a groin injury, and may miss tonight's game against the Los Angeles Kings.
It's a tough blow to the Oilers to lose Kane for any period of time at all. Being one of their most effective players as a power forward, Kane can provide some scoring while also leading the team in hits. Especially in what should be a highly competitive game against LA tonight, Kane's physicality will be sorely missed by the Oilers.
At the same time, it may be best to allow Kane to rest and recover from this injury that's been clearly bothering him for almost a month. He hasn't had his same explosive speed and power recently, and the Oilers will need Kane to be at full strength for meaningful games down the stretch of the season.
