The NHL said it will investigate an allegation made by Evander Kane’s wife that the San Jose Sharks forward bet on his own games and has intentionally tried to lose for gambling profit.
The league said Saturday night on Twitter that it was made aware of the social media posts by Anna Kane and plans to conduct a full investigation. Anna Kane wrote: “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.”
She added: “Can someone ask [Commissioner] Gary Bettman how they let a player gamble on his own games? Bet and win with bookies on his own games?”
The NHL said: “The integrity of our game is paramount and the League takes these allegations very seriously.”
We intend to conduct a full investigation and will have no further comment at this time. (2/2)
—@PR_NHL
A Sharks team spokesperson wrote in an email to The Associated Press that: “The San Jose Sharks have been in contact today with the National Hockey League about the serious allegations made against Evander Kane. We support a full and transparent investigation into the situation to maintain the integrity of the game and consistency with our team values.”
Kane’s gambling history and finances have been public knowledge for some time. A Las Vegas Strip casino sued Kane in 2019, alleging he failed to repay a $500,000 US gambling debt racked up during a playoff series against the Golden Knights.
Since the U.S. Supreme Court paved the way for legalized sports gambling in the U.S. and more states have adopted it, the NHL has embraced the possibilities and made several partnerships with sportsbooks and other betting organizations.
Reached by email before the league’s announcement, NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said only a statement would be coming. The league said it would not make any further comments at this time.
Messages sent to Kane’s agent and the Sharks seeking comment were not immediately returned.
Kane, 29, is three seasons into a $49 million US, seven-year contract. He’s with his third organization after being drafted by and debuting with Atlanta/Winnipeg and a stint in Buffalo. According to Capfriendly, which charts hockey salaries, he has made just under $56 million US during his NHL career.
A message sent to Kane’s agent was not immediately returned.
Last season, he had 22 goals and 27 assists in 56 games.