Sharks: Kane Not Participating in Training Camp

Evander Kane (9) is being investigated by the NHL for another accusation by Kane’s wife Anna and domestic abuse which Kane denies. Here is Kane during a game from last season as he’s not practicing in training camp until he is cleared in the investigation (file photo Realtor.com)

By Mary Walsh

On Wednesday, the NHL concluded its investigation into claims that Evander Kane gambled on NHL games, including Sharks games he played in. They found no evidence that he placed bets on NHL games, as his wife claimed. Not only did the NHL find no proof that Kane gambled on hockey, but their statement also said : “To the contrary, the evidence raises doubts about the veracity of the allegations.” Ms. Kane declined to participate in the investigation.

While the gambling matter has been put to rest, the investigation brought to light accusations of physical abuse. The NHL’s statement read, in part:

“During the course of this investigation, however, two additional matters were brought to our attention which we feel require further investigation and study. Both allege potential wrongdoing by Mr. Kane, one involving serious accusations relating to his past behavior toward Ms. Kane and the other involving allegations of inappropriate behavior potentially jeopardizing the health and safety of Club members. These matters are being thoroughly investigated and the National Hockey League will have no further comment regarding their substance pending completion of that process.”

As a result of these findings, the Sharks announced that Kane would not participate in training camp, which opened today. Their statement read, in part:

“We take the allegations very seriously and have been in communication with the NHL. The League will continue to have our full cooperation regarding the ongoing investigation.

“The Sharks and Evander have agreed that he will not be participating in Sharks 2021 Training Camp until further notice.”

Both the NHL and the Sharks stated that they have no further comment on the matter at this time.

Sharks Add Nabokov as Goaltending Coach, Camp Opens Friday

By Mary Walsh

With training camp starting Friday, the Sharks formally added Evgeni Nabokov to their coaching roster, as goaltending development coach and special assignment scout. The Sharks have also signed defenseman Jeremy Roy to an entry level contract.

The addition of Nabokov to the coaching staff was not surprising, as he had already been spotted on the ice during prospect camp practices. Of the former Sharks goaltender, Sharks GM Doug Wilson said, in the team press release: “Nabby’s career speaks for itself and he is one of the most beloved players to ever play for our franchise,” said Wilson. He will be a tremendous asset to our young, developing goaltenders. I have great respect for him as a hockey person and as a man.”

The press release also summarized Nabokov’s playing career:

Nabokov finished his remarkable career ranked 18th on the NHL’s all-time wins list (353), 17th in shutouts (59) and 25th in games played by a goaltender (697). He appeared in 86 career Stanley Cup Playoff games (22nd all-time), and ranks 23rd all-time in postseason wins (42) and T-20th in postseason shutouts (7). He helped lead the Sharks to two of their three franchise Western Conference Final appearances (2004, 2010). In 697 career NHL games with San Jose, the New York Islanders and Tampa Bay Lightning, Nabokov posted a 353-227-29-71 record, with a 2.44 goals-against average, a .911 save percentage and 59 shutouts.

Sunday, the Sharks announced that they had signed their 2015 2nd round pick, defenseman Jeremy Roy, to an entry level contract. Roy spent the past two seasons in the QMJHL, and represented Canada at the U-18 World Junior Championships last season. He recorded four points in that tournament, on the way to a bronze medal for his team.

On Friday, the Sharks training camp officially kicks off at Sharks Ice in San Jose. Group A will skate at 9:30, with Group B taking the ice at 11:45. The team is scheduled to skate again Saturday and Sunday at the same times. They will be in Vancouver for preseason games Monday and Tuesday.