Report: NHL investigating Evander Kane for potential COVID-19 protocol violation

The NHL is looking into the possibility that San Jose Sharks forward Evander Kane violated the league's COVID-19 protocols, reports Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.

After clearing Kane in a gambling investigation last week, the NHL continued to focus on him over separate allegations in two subsequent probes.

"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," the league said at the time about the other inquiries.

While the NHL has established COVID-19 protocols, it hasn't created specific penalties for violations. The league fined the Washington Capitals $100,000 and suspended four of their players - including superstar Alex Ovechkin - four games each for not adhering to the rules earlier this year.

The NHL began zeroing in on Kane after his wife, Anna, accused him in July of gambling on and throwing his own games. Kane denied doing so before the league cleared him on that front, but he has admitted to having a gambling addiction. The 30-year-old filed for bankruptcy in January.

Kane is under contract with the Sharks through 2024-25. He led the team in scoring last season with 22 goals and 27 assists while playing all 56 contests.