Evander Kane, a forward for the San Jose Sharks, has publicly rejected an allegation made by his wife on social media that he bet on National Hockey League games and intentionally tried to lose for gambling profit.
Kane wrote in a statement he released on Twitter Sunday morning that “Unfortunately I would like to address the completely FALSE accusations that my estranged and soon to be ex-wife has made against me. Even against the advice of my legal team I feel strongly that the public and fans here [sic] this directly from me. I have NEVER gambled/bet on Hockey, NEVER gambled/bet on a Sharks game, NEVER gambled/bet on any of my games and NEVER thrown a hockey game.”
Kane’s comments came less than 24 hours after the league announced it was made aware of Anna Kane’s social media statements and would launch an investigation.
Anna Kane wrote on Instagram that “How does the NHL let a compulsive gambling addict still play when he’s obviously throwing games to win money? Hmm maybe someone needs to address this.”
Kane’s gambling history and financial situation have been public knowledge for some time. In 2019, Kane was sued by a Las Vegas casino for allegedly failing to repay a $500,000 gambling debt racked up during a playoff series against the Golden Knights.
Kane said in his Sunday statement that “The facts are I personally had my best season of my career last year and was the most consistent I’ve been throughout my season, I’m proud of that. I love the game of Hockey and would never do any of what was alleged. I look forward to cooperating fully with the league’s investigation, having my name cleared and looking forward to the upcoming season.”
Kane, 29, is three seasons into a seven-year, $49 million contract. After being drafted by and making his debut with Atlanta/Winnipeg, as well as a stint with Buffalo, he is now with his third organization. He has made just under $56 million in his NHL career, according to CapFriendly, a website that tracks hockey salaries.
