By Canadian Press

Oilers, Kane come to terms on four-year, $20.5 million contract

Jul 13, 2022 | 10:17 AM

EDMONTON — After being given the OK to look around for a new NHL home, Evander Kane has decided to return to Edmonton.

The Oilers made Kane’s return official Wednesday, announcing they have signed the forward to a four-year contract with an average annual value of US$5.125 million.

Kane had said on social media Tuesday night that he was returning to Edmonton. The 30-year-old Vancouver native was set to become a free agent and had been given permission by the Oilers to talk to other clubs..

The Oilers initially signed Kane on Jan. 27 after the San Jose Sharks terminated the remainder of his contract for violating COVID-19 protocols while in the American Hockey League.

Kane is challenging the Sharks’ decision by filing a grievance through the NHL Players’ Association.

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Kane made an immediate impact in Edmonton, scoring 22 goals and adding 17 assists through 43 regular-season games.

He continued to provide an offensive punch in the playoffs with a team-high 13 goals in 15 games as the Oilers reached the Western Conference final from the first time since 2006.

“A big part of my decision to stay in Edmonton was because of the opportunity given to me only seven months ago, but also the chance to be a part of a championship team,” Kane, who maintained negotiations with the Oilers, even after the team gave him permission to other clubs, wrote on his verified Twitter account.

“Throughout the last 12 months, there have been lots of roadblocks, tons of adversity and many tough days,” he added. “I’m grateful for the tremendous amount of support from family, friends, teammates and others who have helped me stay strong through these difficult times.”

Kane has 545 points (286 goals, 259 assists) over 812 games with Atlanta/Winnipeg, Buffalo, San Jose and Edmonton.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 13, 2022.

The Canadian Press