Vancouver Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin is reportedly exploring the possibility of trading Evander Kane back to the Edmonton Oilers, a surprising turn of events considering Kane was just dealt to Vancouver this past summer.
According to Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal, the Canucks have already reached out to the Oilers to gauge their interest in reacquiring the veteran winger. Dhaliwal reported on Sportsnet 650's Halford and Brough in the Morning that while he hasn't confirmed the report, he's heard from multiple sources that the Canucks have "tried to peddle him back to Edmonton". However, Dhaliwal also stated that his Edmonton source has indicated that a reunion with Kane is unlikely, stating, "that ship has sailed for the Oilers".
Kane, 34, is in the final year of his four-year, $20.5 million contract, carrying a $5.125 million cap hit. He signed the contract with the Oilers in 2022. Since joining the Canucks, he has recorded 6 goals and 14 assists for 20 points in 42 games.
The Canucks' potential desire to move Kane comes as a surprise, considering he was acquired to bolster their top-nine forward group. However, the team's performance has been underwhelming, and they may be looking to offload veterans and accumulate assets for the future. Kane, as a pending unrestricted free agent, could be seen as a valuable trade chip.
For the Oilers, the initial decision to trade Kane was driven by the need to create salary cap flexibility. Re-acquiring him would require the Canucks to retain salary or take back a contract of their own. Despite Kane's previous success in Edmonton, where he once led the team in playoff scoring, the Oilers may be hesitant to bring back a player with a history of off-ice issues.
The Oilers originally traded Kane to Vancouver for a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. At the time of the trade, Kane expressed his excitement about joining the Canucks, his hometown team.
It remains to be seen whether the Oilers will reconsider their stance on Kane as the March 6th trade deadline approaches. If the Canucks are willing to retain a significant portion of his salary or take back an unwanted contract, the possibility of Kane returning to Edmonton could become more realistic. However, as it stands, a reunion appears unlikely.
