“What has become abundantly clear is that the Oilers’ top-six can function very well without Kane, begging the question, do the Oilers even need him on the roster, or are they better off moving him and opening up space?” wrote an Oilers journalist in a recent post. Fans chastised the writer for proposing the team move on from one of the most productive wingers the Oilers have had in the last two and a half seasons, with many reminding him that Kane provides something no other Oiler does. In fact, his skill set is uncommon in the NHL.
In trying to see both sides of the debate, I can understand where the author is coming from. His argument is that Kane not playing in the top six equates to a lot of money being spent in the lower part of the forward corps and perhaps that money can be better used elsewhere. The Oilers do have holes to fill and the $5.125 million on Kane’s cap hit could solve a number of issues.
At the same time, Kane is not always in the bottom six and is capable of playing on the top line. He’s got 13 goals and 23 points in 31 games and doing so while not completely healed from a freak accident last season that took him out for half of the season. On pace for 34 goals, why would the Oilers trade that kind of production? And, when you factor in the fact that he’s a willing combatant, brings people into the fight and plays on the edge (which is often needed), losing that element from your lineup could be detrimental come playoff time.
Oh, and Kane has proven himself in the playoffs, with 16 goals in 27 games for Edmonton since his arrival.
Fans Jumped All Over His Trade Suggestion
The reactions on social media to the post revealed that the majority of Oilers supporters support the idea of keeping Kane. “Horrible post,” one Twitter user stated, while another said, “Awful post.” Kane belongs in the top six, and the fix is only temporary. Also, when the playoffs arrive, you’ll need a player like this.” Another person stated, “There isn’t a player you want in game 83 more then this guy.”
Kane will not be traded by the Oilers. Not unless their offer for him exceeds the team’s expectations of what they might earn from another club. Even so, Kane has a no-movement clause. He’s not going anywhere if he doesn’t want to be moved.
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