The Edmonton Oilers may have reshaped their roster this offseason, but one familiar name is generating interest. Edmonton Journal columnist David Staples believes unrestricted free agent Evander Kane still fills a role the current lineup lacks.
Staples argued that Edmonton needs a physical deterrent capable of matching the NHL‘s toughest players during the playoffs. His comments come after another offseason of significant roster changes around Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
The Oilers traded Darnell Nurse, rebuilt their goaltending, and added several depth pieces after their first-round playoff exit. However, the team no longer has Kane’s intimidating presence following his departure in 2025.
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Kane remains a free agent after recording 31 points in 71 games with the Vancouver Canucks last season. His offensive numbers declined, but his physical reputation remains respected around the league.
There are several players who continue to set the league’s physical standard. Boston features Nikita Zadorov, Montreal has Arber Xhekaj, Washington relies on Tom Wilson, while their rival Florida now boasts Brady Tkachuk, Matthew Tkachuk, and Radko Gudas.
Staples believes Kane could become Edmonton Oilers’ deterrent
May 18, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Evander Kane (91) and Vancouver Canucks defensemen Nikita Zadorov (91) fight during the third period in game six of the second round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images
Staples recalled Zadorov’s impact during Vancouver’s seven-game playoff series against Edmonton in 2024.
“If the Oilers had not had the nuclear deterrent of Evander Kane in that series, Zadorov was so fierce and physically forceful with his hitting — hammering top Oilers players with wicked body blow — that I believe Vancouver would have won that series,” Staples wrote. “Zadorov was dominating play through raw intimidation until Kane stepped up and went after him.”
Staples also explained why he still views Zadorov as the league’s most intimidating player.
“I see Zadorov as the NHL’s most dominant intimidator, an apex predator,” he wrote, pointing to Jason Strudwick’s comment.
He then identified the few players capable of matching that physical edge.
“Who might give Zadorov a run for his money? Washington’s Tom Wilson. Florida’s Radko Gudas. And maybe still Evander Kane.”
Staples concluded, “I believe the Oilers could dearly use that kind of player, so much so that I’m open to them now bringing back Kane.”
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The argument centers less on scoring than playoff survival. Teams with elite skill still need players who discourage opponents from targeting their stars.
Whether Edmonton reunites with Kane remains uncertain. Still, Staples believes physical intimidation remains an important ingredient for any team hoping to win the Stanley Cup.