Evander Kane injury return timeline pushed back, according to Oilers insider

Evander Kane has been heavily ramping up in practice over the last month, and now with consistent good efforts, insiders believed a return in Game 1 was likely.

The Edmonton Oilers just returned for their road trip in California, where it was possible for Kane to join their AHL affiliate for a conditioning stint.

Oilers insider Jason Gregor is now reporting that Kane will not partake in a conditioning stint, and therefore a Game 1 return isn't likely.

Kane's injury return timeline has been in flux all season long. The Oilers veteran forward played through injury all playoffs last year, and then underwent major surgery in training camp to correct multiple injuries. Later, he had another surgery to correct a knee issue.

He has a long way to go to fully rehab from his injuries and surgeries, then get up to speed to handle an NHL playoff game. When he does return to play, Coach Knoblauch may be hesitant to even play a 32 year old who hasn't played all year.

On the other hand, if Kane is fully healthy and can immediately find his game, he'll be a major asset to the Oilers as a scoring power forward.

His return, and what time he returns, could be a real X-factor for the Oilers. It's unfortunate it doesn't look like he'll be back in Game 1, which would've given him as much time as possible to ramp up through the playoffs.