#EvanderKaneWatch pic.twitter.com/i9Oia9gGZz
— SabresBuzzTradeDeadline (@SabresBuzz) February 24, 2018
It’s happening.
Evander Kane is one step closer to becoming a former abuffalo Sabre.
My friend Mike Harrington on the Buffalo News reports Kane will not play for the Sabres tonight against the Washington Capitals.
Phil Houlsey broke the news at his pregame presser.
The team has confirmed the Kane scratch.
Coach Housley says Evander Kane will not play tonight. “Management thought it was the best decision moving forward and the best decision for Evander.…
— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) February 24, 2018
Housley:
"It's always difficult when you come to these situations," Housley said. "You're taking 20 goals out of the lineup but I understand the business part of it and our management thought it was in the best interest to sit Evander out tonight."
This is a tell that a Kane trade is progressing to a conclusion ahead of Monday’s NHL trade deadline.
Kane scored his 20th goal of the season in Detroit on Thursday night.
Kane has 20 goals and 20 assists in 61 games played this season.
In 196 games in three seasons with the Sabres, Kane has scored 68 goals and 50 assists for 118 points. In the Buffalo chapter of his career, Kane has 56 even strength goals, 8 PPG, 4 SHG, and 10 GWG.
Kane has accumulated 261 PIMs in Buffalo.
In 557 career games with Atlanta, Winnipeg and Buffalo, Kane has scored 177 goals and 163 assists for 340 points and 646 PIMs.
Earlier this week, Kane said he's well aware of the hockey buzz and trade chatter surrounding his name. He's ready for a trade to finally go down.
Tom Petty nailed it. The waiting is the hardest part.
Evander Kane had some fun after practice with social media and how much he pays attention to the rumors that are out there @news4buffalo #Sabres #NHLTradeDeadline #TradeDeadline pic.twitter.com/5UJJr3Rgl3
— Nick Filipowski (@NEWS4_NICK) February 21, 2018
Which team will Kane be traded to ?
My list includes:
Which have expressed interest in Kane from a long term scouting perspective this season: Vancouver, New Jersey, Anaheim, LA, San Jose, Pittsburgh, Columbus, Calgary and Nashville.
— SabresBuzzTradeDeadline (@SabresBuzz) February 24, 2018
More to come.