NHL: Sharks' Evander Kane hit with 21-game ban for fake covid vaccination card

The NHL sanctioned Evander Kane for “established violation” of the league’s coronavirus protocol and handed down a whopping 21-game suspension.

Stats PerformUpdate: Oct 19th, 2021 10:07 EDT

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San Jose Sharks forward Evander Kane has been suspended for 21 games without pay by the NHL after violating the league’s covid-19 protocol.

Kane was not with the Sharks during their training camp, while he did not play in the team’s season-opening 4-3 win over the Winnipeg Jets on Saturday.

The 30-year-old – who led the Sharks last season with 49 points (22 goals and 27 assists) in 56 games – is not eligible to return until November 30 against the New Jersey Devils after allegations he submitted a fake covid-19 vaccination card to the NHL and team.

Kane: “I made a mistake, one I sincerely regret”

Statement from the San Jose Sharks. pic.twitter.com/P25XxpiJgH

— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) October 18, 2021

“I would like to apologise to my team-mates, the San Jose Sharks organisation, and all Sharks fans for violating the NHL covid protocols,” Kane said in a statement on Monday.

“I made a mistake, one I sincerely regret and take responsibility for. During my suspension, I will continue to participate in counselling to help me make better decisions in the future.

“When my suspension is over, I plan to return to the ice with great effort, determination, and love for the game of hockey.”

San Jose left wing Kane has four seasons remaining on a seven-year contract he signed with the Sharks in 2018.

Selected with the fourth pick in the 2009 NHL Draft, Kane has tallied 506 points – 264 goals and 242 assists – in 769 regular-season games with the Atlanta Thrashers, Jets, Buffalo Sabres and Sharks, while he has managed 13 points (six goals and seven assists) in 29 Stanley Cup playoff appearances