Evander Kane (Jim Rassol-Imagn Images)EDMONTON -- Winning gives the luxury of time.
While time hasn't always been on the Edmonton Oilers' side, it is now. The Oilers are not in dire straights by any stretch.
The need for offensive reinforcements is minimal. When you look at the big picture, every piece is important, and decision-makers should have all the information they need before they make a decision.
This is why it's excellent news that Evander Kane is recovering from his injury.
Jason Gregor reported on X yesterday. Here's what he said.
"Evander Kane has started skating," Gregor began. "He has skated the past two days and around 60% pace, as he will need time to get up to speed. He hasn't played since June and hasn't really skated."
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Beginning skating is a very good thing - but it doesn't mean he'll be ready to play anytime soon. I imagine he will probably need a solid month of skating before any consideration is made on putting him into a game.
Would Kane accept a conditioning loan to Bakersfield? Given his competitive nature, I imagine he would rather be thrown into the fires of NHL gameplay than endure the perceived hoopla of an AHL conditioning stint.
One way or another, the Oilers need to see Kane play. If he can play at 90 percent of what the team knows he is capable of, he will be a welcomed addition. If not, the Oilers will need to make some decisions on what his future with the team will be.
Fortunately for the Oilers, they still have time to sort that all out.
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