Evander Kane Absence Presents Golden Opportunity

Evander Kane not being in the lineup will allow a younger winger to assert himself into the Edmonton Oilers lineup.

Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports - Evander Kane Absence Presents Golden Opportunity

EDMONTON -- The 2024 NHL Playoffs are officially underway.

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Although the Edmonton Oilers don't play until Monday, they started practicing today. The conclusion of their season was on Thursday - signaling a fresh start for everyone on the roster.

One forward who could sure use a new beginning is Evander Kane. He's had an up and down season - with mixed results. He started the season all guns blazing, with 20 points in his first 21 games.

Kane then fizzled out, which included setting a personal record of 20 games without a goal.

It's now the playoffs - which means everyone is given a clean slate. Unfortunately for Kane, he's a little banged up right now.

In his (presumed) sted on the third line, Dylan Holloway is making the most of a brand new opportunity. He's doing what he can to force the coaching staff to keep him in.

Holloway has five points in six games since being called up. That also includes firing 14 shots and throwing 23 hits.

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If Kane ends up missing the first game of the series - Kris Knoblauch and the coaching staff may need to make some difficult decisions.

For now, it's a golden opportunity for Holloway to prove that he belongs in the NHL.

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