Edmonton Oilers forward Evander Kane has made a strong return to playoff action against the Los Angeles Kings, exceeding expectations after missing nearly a year of hockey due to recovery from multiple surgeries. Kane was inserted into the lineup for Game 2 of the first-round series.
There was skepticism among observers about how effective Kane could be after such a long layoff, especially given his physical style of play. Some believed his impact might be limited to forechecking.
However, Kane quickly silenced doubts by contributing offensively and physically. He has brought renewed energy to the Oilers' lineup.
In Game 3, Kane scored a chaotic goal from the front of the net that tied the game. Kings coach Jim Hiller challenged the play for goaltender interference on Darcy Kuemper, but the call on the ice was upheld. The Oilers were awarded a power play after the unsuccessful challenge, where Evan Bouchard scored the game-winning goal shortly after.
Kane scored another tying goal in Game 5, taking a pass from John Klingberg and beating Darcy Kuemper with a shot that deflected off Vladislav Gavrikov. His Game 5 tally tied him with Oilers great Ryan Smyth for sixth all-time in playoff goals by a winger for the team.
Beyond scoring, Kane has provided a physical presence. He stepped in to defend Connor McDavid during an exchange with Vladislav Gavrikov in Game 5. Despite being crosschecked into the net by Brandt Clarke on another play, he avoided taking a penalty, prioritizing the team situation. Former Oilers head coach Craig MacTavish noted that while Kane might have reacted differently in a regular season game or blowout, he showed composure.
Kane has also helped form an effective second line alongside Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Zach Hyman. This trio has generated numerous scoring chances and brought a hard-hitting element to the game, with Hyman delivering double-digit hits in consecutive games. Data from Natural Stat Trick indicates the line has held a significant edge in shots and high-danger chances when on the ice.
Goalie Calvin Pickard praised Kane's quick adjustment, stating, "I’m not surprised at all. He’s a fantastic athlete. He was making a home in the crease. And a couple of big goals for us, obviously the one in Game 3. Who know what would have happened if that doesn’t go in. And after they scored here, he got that one back. He’s been a huge addition."
