One game into his tenure with the San Jose Sharks, and Evander Kane is already a difference maker.
Kane recorded two assists, two shots on goal, four hits, one block and was named the game’s second star in the Sharks 5-2 win over the Oilers at home on Tuesday night.
After Kane was acquired by the Sharks, grizzled veteran Joe Thornton decided to pick up his new teammate from the airport.
Given Kane’s history, it’s important that veterans like Thornton take him under his wing and make him feel like he’s a part of something significant in San Jose. Kane has never made the playoffs over his nine career after playing on poor team in Atlanta, Winnipeg and Buffalo. It also speaks volumes to Thornton’s leadership skills by making it a priority for a new teammate to feel welcomed onto his new club.
Via NHL.com, Kane explained to reporters following the game on what it means to be playing on a potential playoff team like the Sharks after spending a good chunk of his career being on the outside looking in when the regular season concludes and the playoffs begin.
"I kind of come from not playing so much meaningful hockey to playing some meaningful hockey," Kane told NHL.com’s Eric Gilmore.
"Obviously, you get a little ramped up, and I just tried to change the game in any way I can. It's good to get on the board and contribute offensively and also with some other elements."
The question now becomes, will Kane grow out his beard to match the likes of Jumbo and fellow teammate Brent Burns?
Not unless he gets his hands on some hair growing supplements.
