The Edmonton Oilers’ salary cap saga has hit a temporary resolution with winger Evander Kane expected to start the season on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) due to a persistent sports hernia/hip injury. This development, reported by 630 CHED’s Bob Stauffer, could provide much-needed financial relief for the cap-strapped Oilers.
Hearing there is a very good chance that the @EdmontonOilers Evander Kane won't be ready for the start of the season…that he may require surgery…and is likely to be on LTIR to start the year
— Bob Stauffer (@Bob_Stauffer) August 12, 2024
Kane, who battled through pain last season, showcased resilience despite the injury’s impact. In 77 regular-season games, he tallied 24 goals and 44 points. However, the ailment hindered his performance during the playoffs, where he mustered only four goals and eight points in 20 games. His injury was exacerbated in the postseason, notably during Game 6 against the Dallas Stars, where he was limited to just 4:39 of ice time.
The Oilers, having made significant moves in free agency by adding Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson, found themselves over the salary cap by $354,167, as per PuckPedia. With restricted free agents Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg still to be signed, the cap situation was dire.
Kane’s placement on LTIR will alleviate $5.125 million of cap space, temporarily solving the Oilers’ cap issues. However, this fix is only short-term. Once Kane recovers and returns, the Oilers will need to navigate the cap space to reintegrate him, potentially exploring trades. Kane’s no-movement clause, which loosens to a 16-team approved trade list on March 1, 2025, could be a critical factor in managing future cap strategies.
As the Oilers maneuver through these choppy financial waters, Kane’s recovery and the team’s subsequent decisions will be crucial in shaping their season’s trajectory.
