Report: Big win for Kane in controversial court case

Buffalo Sabres forward Evander Kane has won a court case in Victoria requiring his insurance company to pay the cost of his defence against a claim of battery in New York state. 

Co-operators General Insurance Company, Kane's insurer, is now obliged to pay defence costs, as B.C. Supreme Court Justice Shelley Fitzpatrick decided.

As well, “Mr. Kane is permitted to conduct the defence of the action with legal counsel of his choosing; Co-operators is responsible for paying all fees of such counsel to date and in the future…”

The insurance company will need to pay the hourly rate normally charged by Kane’s lawyer.

Rachel Kuechle filed a complaint in July 2016 against Kane in New York State Supreme Court in the county of Erie, the decision said. Kuechle alleged that in late December 201,5 Kane invited her to his hotel room for what he called a party.

Kuechle alleges Kane inflicted physical battery, the document states.

In a 2016 Associated Press story, Kane’s lawyer in New York, Paul Cambria, was quoted as saying the allegations against his client were “extremely exaggerated” and his client “denies strenuously any wrongdoing.”

This story might take the heat off the recent trade rumours surrounding Kane. Though the Sabres aren’t interested in trading the forward, TSN Darren Dreger reported that they might if they are blown away by an offer. 

Kane has been the Sabres' best player so far this season, recording five goals and 10 points in seven games.