Speculation has emerged regarding a potential reunion between Evander Kane and the Edmonton Oilers for the 2026-27 NHL season. This follows Kane's trade to the Vancouver Canucks earlier in the offseason.
The Rumor's Origin
The speculation began with a post by the 2 Mutts Podcast on X, noting that Kane was spotted playing in a summer beer league game in Edmonton under an alias. The podcast added that Kane is spending his offseason in Edmonton and that conversations about a possible return to the Oilers after his current contract ends have occurred. It is important to approach this rumor with caution, as the 2 Mutts Podcast, while having had some accurate scoops, has also had misses.
Kane's Recent History with the Oilers
The Oilers initially signed Kane as a free agent in January 2022 after the San Jose Sharks terminated his contract. He made a significant impact, scoring 39 points in 43 games during the remainder of the 2021-22 regular season. Kane also had a strong playoff performance in 2022, tying for first in goals with Nathan MacKinnon. Following this, he signed a four-year, $20.5 million contract with the Oilers. Over his tenure with the Oilers, Kane scored 62 goals and 111 points in 161 regular-season games and added 26 goals and 42 points in 68 playoff games.
However, the Oilers traded Kane to the Vancouver Canucks in June 2025. He had a $5.125 million cap hit, and the Oilers needed to free up cap space. Kane's performance declined due to injuries. He underwent surgeries for a sports hernia and a knee injury, causing him to miss the entire regular season before returning for the playoffs. In 21 playoff games, he recorded 12 points.
Oilers' Cap Situation and Roster Construction
The Oilers' cap situation will be a significant factor in determining whether they can re-sign Kane in 2026. They have key players like Connor McDavid and Evan Bouchard who will need contract extensions. McDavid is eligible for free agency in 2026, and the Oilers are expected to offer him a contract that would make him the highest-paid player in the NHL. It is estimated McDavid's next contract could exceed $17 million annually.
Several players are under contract with the Oilers for the 2026-27 season, including Leon Draisaitl, Darnell Nurse, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. Recent additions to the team include Andrew Mangiapane and Isaac Howard. The Oilers traded for Vasily Podkolzin in August 2024. With these players, along with their prospects, the Oilers' projected cap hit for the 2026-2027 season is over $102 million.
Kane's Perspective
Kane is entering the final year of his four-year contract with a $5.125 million average annual value and will be an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season. He expressed excitement about playing for his hometown Canucks. Whether he would consider returning to Edmonton would likely depend on his experiences in Vancouver, his role on the team, and his desire to contend for a Stanley Cup.
Possibility of a Return
While Kane's return to Edmonton is possible, it is not probable. The Oilers traded Kane for cap reasons, and those issues may persist. To make a return feasible, Kane might need to accept a lower salary. However, if he remains healthy and productive, and if Edmonton has sufficient cap space, a reunion cannot be ruled out. If there is no indication of interest at the upcoming NHL trade deadline, then a reunion is unlikely.
