NHL Investigates Oilers' LTIR Use for Evander Kane

The NHL is continuing its investigation into the Edmonton Oilers' use of long-term injured reserve (LTIR) for forward Evander Kane, who missed the entire 2024-25 regular season due to multiple surgeries but returned in the playoffs. The league is scrutinizing whether the Oilers violated the spirit of the collective bargaining agreement by delaying Kane's return to gain salary cap flexibility, which could result in retroactive penalties—though no team has yet been punished for LTIR usage in the salary cap era. The Oilers have complied with all requests for medical documentation, but the timing of Kane's activation in the playoffs has raised questions, especially given no salary cap restrictions during postseason play. Kane recorded 12 points in the playoffs, but the investigation has sparked frustration among fans and media who view the scrutiny as selective compared to previous cases involving other teams. The situation has fueled discussions about implementing a postseason salary cap to prevent similar controversies. With Kane entering the final year of his contract and key player extensions looming, any penalties could complicate Edmonton's offseason plans.