The Edmonton Oilers are entering what is truly going to be a crucial stretch run for them in the next few seasons while the likes of superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are still under contract. The prevailing thought among many is that one or both of them could elect to seek greener pastures if the Oilers don't win a championship in that time frame before they're eligible to become free agents.
And general manager Ken Holland has worked to supplement the dynamic duo by surrounding them with support pieces, one of the most successful of which has been the acquisition of forward Evander Kane. Following a strong postseason performance in 2022, Kane was re-signed by the Oilers to a four year pact worth $20.5 million.
But could he be a potential sacrificial lamb if the Oilers come out of the gate this upcoming season struggling? It's a possibility, according to The Athletic:
Last season, Kane was limited to 41 games after suffering a gruesome injury after being accidentally cut by the skate blade of Tampa Bay Lightning forward Pat Maroon. However, his 16 goals in 41 games put him on pace to at least reach the 30 goal plateau.
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