Edmonton Oilers team skate plagued by the absence of star player

According to reporter Jim Matheson, there was one key player missing. Of course, that player was none other than Evander Kane. Throughout the offseason, there have been numerous reports about Kane and his health. There were reports that he could be placed on the long-term injured reserve. Meanwhile, others claimed that the Oilers were gearing up for a trade.

Now, Matheson is claiming that Kane still suffers from a sports hernia and is expected to fail the team physical before training camp. From there, Kane and the Oilers may have to contemplate surgery. This would then take Kane out of hockey for at least two months.

With the Oilers cap problems, Kane's $5.125 million salary may just prove to be a hard pill to swallow. However, if he can prove his health, then the Oilers will certainly be feeling a lot better about things. Only time will tell how this all ends up shaking out.

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