The worst is about to be confirmed for Edmonton Oilers' Evander Kane

A recent development from the renowned reporter Bob Stauffer suggested that Kane might miss the start of the regular season.

Indeed, the forward could be forced to undergo surgery and be placed on the Long Term Injury Reserve.

After a rough playoff run that ended with Kane watching games from the press box, injured, it looks like the Oilers will need to play without Kane at the start of next season. Despite the Oilers' summer acquisitions (Viktor Arvidsson, Jeff Skinner, and Matthew Savoie), Kane won't be so easily replaceable. He overcame his health issues to score eight points in 20 games during the 2024 playoffs. Also, he always found a way to remain physically involved in the action, which is notable when players are determined to push through the pain to do so.

Additionally, the 33-year-old forward tallied 44 points, including 24 goals, in 77 regular season games.

Even if the Oilers are pumped to start the next season the right way, Kane's absence could be tough to deal with for a few of his teammates.

Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard will need to be at the top of their art to fill in for their fallen comrade.

Updates and details will come. Stay tuned.

Source for Evander Kane's statistics: Hockey DB
Evander Kane