“A completely flawed system in so many ways.”
Sharks winger Evander Kane described the NHL’s Department of Player Safety this way Saturday, after being handed a three-game suspension for elbowing Winnipeg Jets defenceman Neal Pionk in the head during Friday night’s win.
The 28-year-old posted a lengthy statement on social media Saturday, calling the decision-making process “ridiculous” in addition to the above quote.
MY STATEMENT: pic.twitter.com/taoALpVmvn
— Evander Kane (@evanderkane_9) February 15, 2020
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Kane also brought up multiple incidents similar to his current situation, as well as his suspension during last year's Stanley Cup playoffs. He cited what he calls a “major lack of consistency” in penalties and suspensions assessed.
But I thought this was a 1 game playoff suspension??? No? https://t.co/v6NCUqquGI
— Evander Kane (@evanderkane_9) February 15, 2020
But this doesn’t get anything?? Tell me what this difference is please! https://t.co/MSw50eIENa
— Evander Kane (@evanderkane_9) February 15, 2020
The suspension was Kane’s second of the season, as the veteran missed the first three games of the regular season after “physical abuse of an official” during a preseason game against the Vegas Golden Knights.