New Oilers forward Evander Kane asks fans to keep an open mind

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Evander Kane knows he will not be universally loved by fans of the Edmonton Oilers.

Edmonton is the fourth franchise for the 30-year-old forward whose contract was dumped by the San Jose Sharks. There will be questions about his past, from suspensions due to violations of COVID-19 protocols, a bankruptcy and self-confessed gambling problems. Allegations of abuse lodged by his ex-wife were not proven in court.

Kane met with the media Friday for the first time since landing a deal for the rest of the season.

"I want to clear up a lot of the misinformation, a lot of the storylines painting me in a certain light that are completely untrue, inaccurate and false," Kane said. "I would encourage (fans) to be open-minded, to allow me to do what I do best and get to know me on the ice, off the ice, around the rink, in the community, and see what I bring to the table.

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New Edmonton Oilers NHL hockey player Evander Kane speaks during a press conference in Edmonton, Alberta, Friday, Jan. 28, 2022. (Jason Franson/The Canadian Press via AP)

"Every city I’ve been in, I’ve always worked in the community and done what I can to help make that city, that community a better place."

There is no denying Kane’s talent with 506 points in 769 games. But Kane has continually generated headlines for the wrong reasons.

Last fall, he was suspended 21 gamesfor violating COVID-19 protocols ubmitting a fake vaccine card. He was investigated by the league for another alleged violation this season that concluded earlier this week.

Kane declared bankruptcy in 2021, with more than $26 million in debts. He’s publicly admitted he