Evander Kane likely to fail physical after his absence from first team practice

While other veteran players were on the ice at the Downtown Community Arena, ready to start the new season, Kane was noticeably absent. The Oilers, who are eager to bounce back after last season's tough Game 7 loss to the Panthers, are now facing a potential issue with Kane.

Kane has been dealing with a sports hernia and might need surgery. If so, he could be placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) to start the season. According to Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal, Kane might fail his physical at training camp. If that happens, the team could put him on LTIR to free up cap space for other needs.

The 33-year-old Kane struggled with his injury during last season's playoffs, sometimes unable to even sit on the bench because of the pain. He has two years left on his contract with a $5.125 million cap hit. The Oilers will start their pre-season against the Winnipeg Jets on September 22nd.

According to a new report, it sounds as though Darnell Nurse will also start the season on the sidelines.

Source: Blades of Steel
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