Seth Udinski, FISM News
In a curious development, San Jose Shark forward Evander Kane was issued a 21 game suspension by the NHL earlier this week for submitting a false vaccine card to the league in order to avoid the league’s restrictions for unvaccinated players.
The NHL’s vaccine mandates are not as strict as that of other professional leagues, and players are allowed to participate without receiving the jab. However, unvaccinated players must wear masks and quarantine when traveling across the Canadian border to play. It appears Kane wanted the benefits that inoculated players have without getting the jab.
The Sharks issued a statement via Twitter on Monday:
Statement from the San Jose Sharks. pic.twitter.com/P25XxpiJgH
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) October 18, 2021
Kane also issued a statement of apology after his suspension was announced, saying,
I would like to apologize to my teammates, the San Jose Sharks organization, and all Sharks fans for violating the NHL COVID protocols. I made a mistake, one I sincerely regret and take responsibility for. During my suspension, I will continue to participate in counseling to help me make better decisions in the future. When my suspension is over, I plan to return to the ice with great effort, determination, and love for the game of hockey.
Kane will be allowed to return to the ice on Nov. 30 for the Sharks’ contest against the New Jersey Devils.
Even before the advent of COVID-19 protocols, Kane had a troubling history with player conduct. Since 2014, he has been issued multiple brief suspensions for illegal hits against players and mistreatment of officials. The NHL had also recently investigated a domestic abuse claim against Kane by his ex-wife, but the league deemed the claim was not proven.