Evander Kane reportedly back in the NHL as early as Tuesday

It's being reported that the NHL is close to winding up its investigation on Evander Kane, and it appears it's good news for him and his camp.

"Sounds like we could hear something one way or another regarding the Evander Kane investigation by this weekend," said Irfaan Gaffar of The Fourth Period. "Strong indication is if all goes well he could play Tuesday in Vancouver against the Canucks."

The implication in that statement is that he would be signed by the Edmonton Oilers, who take on Vancouver Tuesday.

Kane's contract with the San Jose Sharks was terminated after he allegedly travelled to his home province of Vancouver while he was supposed to be self-isolating after testing positive for COVID-19. The big question seems to be whether Kane will be suspended, or whether he actually can be. He's not under contract any longer. It isn't exactly clear if the NHL can make a ruling that says a player has to serve a suspension after signing a new contract when he isn't currently under one. Hopefully that will be made clear by the league when it announces its findings.


Related: OILERS PLACE VETERAN FORWARD ON WAIVER WIRE; ANOTHER FORWARD ON UNCONDITIONAL WAIVERS

There were other teams rumoured to be in the mix to sign Kane when his contract with the Sharks was terminated. Among them were the Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers. However, the consensus appears to be now that if he plays, it will be for the Oilers on a contract that last's until the end of this season.