NHL Continuing Examination Of Oilers' LTIR Use With Evander Kane
Despite the Edmonton Oilers’ season ending in a Stanley Cup Final loss, their off-ice drama is just beginning.
According to Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli, the NHL is continuing its investigation into the Oilers' use of long-term injured reserve (LTIR) for forward Evander Kane.
Kane missed the entire regular season following multiple surgeries, including major procedures on both hips, abdominal muscles, and his knee. Yet he returned in Game 2 of Round 1, raising questions about the timing and cap implications of his comeback.
NHL Still Reviewing Oilers’ LTIR Usage for Kane’s Playoff Return
While the Oilers have fully complied with all league requests for medical documentation, sources say the NHL remains unconvinced that the team stayed within the spirit of the collective bargaining agreement. If the league determines the Oilers manipulated LTIR to delay Kane’s return and gain trade deadline flexibility, Edmonton could face retroactive penalties.
Frank Seravalli: The NHL is investigating the Oilers' use of LTIR with Evander Kane this past season, according to sources - Daily Faceoff
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) June 19, 2025
No team in the salary cap era has been punished for LTIR usage, though similar strategies have been used by Tampa Bay (Kucherov), Vegas (Stone), and Florida (Tkachuk). What sets this situation apart, reportedly, is the timing and optics of Kane’s return.
Fan Outrage and Looming Offseason Impact
The news has infuriated Oilers fans and media, who see the scrutiny as selective enforcement. Edmonton activated Kane late and didn’t spend his LTIR relief until doctors ruled out a regular-season return.
— Evander Kane (@evanderkane) May 15, 2025
Kane finished the playoffs with 12 points and 44 penalty minutes, though his impact faded in the Final. With extensions looming for Connor McDavid and Evan Bouchard, and Kane entering the final year of his deal, any penalty, cap-related or otherwise, could complicate GM Stan Bowman’s summer.
Regardless of intent, the NHL’s continued examination may accelerate calls for a postseason salary cap to prevent further controversy.
Photo Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images
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