Trevor Linden isn’t outright dismissing he’d acquire a player with a checkered police history.
The Canucks president appeared on TSN 1050, where he discussed players with a history of trouble with the police. He said each situation is unique and wouldn’t jump to conclusions without knowing all the details.
“I think with any situation, they’re all unique to themselves,” Linden said, before warning against the temptation to jump to conclusions prior to knowing all the facts.
Linden admitted he preferred to avoid situations where players are in trouble with the law, but said they are put in challenging positions given the amount of money they make.
“Ultimately we’d prefer not to have that situation arise, certainly with our own players,” he added. “It’s a big world out there. Obviously, the challenges are significant for young guys who make a lot of money and get themselves into spots that they make mistakes.”
Linden isn’t general manager Jim Benning, so he won’t tamper, but clearly the discussion is related to Evander Kane. Kane, of course, has had multiple run-ins with the law. The talented forward is from Vancouver and it’s been long-rumored the Canucks have interest in acquiring him. Buffalo hasn’t openly discussed trading him, but it’s certainly a possibility at this point.
Canucks management has shown they’re not the sharpest tools in the shed, but acquiring Kane, right now, would be a bad idea. I like to think they’re smarter than that. His legal issues haven’t concluded. Trading for him now, while charges still pending, would be disgusting. Talent shouldn’t triumph character – especially since his latest charges are days old.
Personally, I wouldn’t want Kane on my hockey team at the moment. Neither should the Canucks, at least until charges are resolved and appropriate discipline is given.
