Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Evander Kane

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 10, 2025

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Evander Kane.

Evander Kane is a Canadian professional ice hockey winger currently playing for the Edmonton Oilers in the NHL. Drafted fourth overall by the Atlanta Thrashers in 2009, Kane has also played for the Winnipeg Jets, Buffalo Sabres, and San Jose Sharks during his NHL career. A prominent player known for his scoring ability and physical style of play.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

April 3, 2014: Accused of assault

On April 3, 2014, Kane was accused of assault, after an incident in Vancouver and was later sued for financial damages.

February 3, 2015: Healthy Scratch

On February 3, 2015, Kane was a healthy scratch against the Vancouver Canucks due to an incident with his teammates.

October 2015: Felt Jets Didn't Have His Back

In October 2015, Kane revealed that he felt the Jets did not "have his back" throughout his legal and behavioral issues and felt they traded away their problem.

June 2016: Confrontations at Buffalo Bar

In June 2016, Evander Kane was allegedly involved in confrontations at a downtown Buffalo bar, leading to police reports and subsequent legal issues. One report alleged Kane grabbed an unnamed woman by the throat and tried to force her into a car outside the nightclub, while another alleged he grabbed a woman's arms inside the nightclub and attempted to force her outside.

July 1, 2016: Kane Sued for Alleged Assault

On July 1, 2016, Evander Kane was sued by a 21-year-old woman who accused him of assaulting her in a hotel room, resulting in injuries that required multiple surgeries.

July 2016: Kane Surrenders to Buffalo Police

In late July 2016, Evander Kane surrendered to Buffalo police following the incidents at a downtown Buffalo bar in June 2016. These incidents prompted concerns from Sabres GM Tim Murray about Kane's off-ice behavior.

August 1, 2016: Kane Pleads Not Guilty to Trespassing and Harassment

On August 1, 2016, Evander Kane pleaded not guilty to one count of criminal trespassing and four counts of non-criminal harassment after confrontations at a Buffalo bar in June 2016, while he was a member of the Buffalo Sabres.

April 26, 2018: Suspended for Cross-Checking

On April 26, 2018, Kane received a one-game suspension for cross-checking Vegas Golden Knights forward Pierre-Edouard Bellemare.

November 4, 2019: Kane Sued by The Cosmopolitan Casino

On November 4, 2019, Evander Kane was sued by The Cosmopolitan casino in Las Vegas for allegedly failing to repay a $500,000 gambling debt incurred in April, prompting the casino to seek full restitution and legal fees.

2019: Suspended for Abusing Officials

During the 2019–20 preseason, Kane was suspended for the first three games of the regular season due to abusing officials.

February 14, 2020: Suspended for Elbowing

On February 14, 2020, Kane was suspended for three games after an elbowing hit in a game against the Winnipeg Jets.

January 11, 2021: Kane Reportedly Files for Bankruptcy

On January 11, 2021, it was reported that Evander Kane filed for chapter 7 bankruptcy in California due to accumulating $26.8 million in debt.

January 2021: Kane Lists Gambling Debts in Bankruptcy Filing

In January 2021, Evander Kane's bankruptcy filing revealed that he owed $1.5 million in gambling debts, confirming his struggle with gambling addiction.

July 2021: Kane Accused of Betting on Own Team's Games

In July 2021, Evander Kane's estranged wife publicly accused him of betting on games involving his own team and "throwing games with bookies." The NHL launched an investigation into the allegations.

August 2021: Kane Receives Temporary Restraining Order Against Ex-Wife

In August 2021, Evander Kane received a temporary restraining order against his ex-wife, claiming past physical abuse and seeking a permanent order, amidst ongoing domestic disputes.

September 2021: Domestic Violence Restraining Order Application Filed

In September 2021, Evander Kane's ex-wife filed a domestic violence restraining order application, accusing Kane of sexual assault and domestic battery, further complicating his personal life.

September 22, 2021: NHL Finds No Evidence of Game Betting Allegations

On September 22, 2021, the NHL released its findings from an investigation into claims against Evander Kane and found no evidence to support allegations of game betting, casting doubt on the veracity of the accusations.

October 18, 2021: Suspended by NHL

On October 18, 2021, Kane was suspended by the NHL for 21 games for violation of COVID-19 protocols.

January 8, 2022: Contract Termination

On January 8, 2022, the Sharks placed Kane on unconditional waivers for the purpose of terminating his contract due to violation of AHL COVID-19 protocols.

2022: Kane's Impact on the Oilers and Suspension

In 2022, Evander Kane debuted with the Oilers on January 29, contributing significantly to the team's performance, including playoff games. However, during Game 3 of the Western Conference Final against the Colorado Avalanche, Kane cross-checked Nazem Kadri, resulting in a major penalty and a one-game suspension by the NHL.