Top 3 Evander Kane replacements if Oilers place him on LTIR following sports hernia surgery feat. Matthew Savoie

Edmonton Oilers forward Evander Kane will be undergoing sports hernia surgery within the next ten days, as per Sportsnet. Kane will have surgery to repair the injury sustained at some point last season.

The injury was significant enough to keep him out of the Oilers’ lineup during the club’s Stanley Cup Final series against the Florida Panthers.

With Evander Kane most likely headed to long-term injured reserve (LTIR), the Oilers will need to find a replacement for his production in the lineup. Barring a trade or perhaps a surprising waiver pickup, the Oilers could look internally to replace Evander Kane.

So, here are three options the Edmonton Oilers could consider if Evander Kane starts the season on LTIR.

Top 3 Evander Kane replacements should Oilers place him on LTIR

#3: Roby Jarventie

The former 33rd overall pick in the 2020 draft by the Ottawa Senators joined the Oilers following a trade for two other prospects.

The Finnish winger has size and speed. After an impressive showing in Europe, Jarventie joined the Belleville Senators of the AHL, posting 50 points in 62 games last season. That showing earned him a brief call-up last season, notching one assist in seven games.

Jarventie could slot into the third line if needed. However, his top-six forward potential could land him higher in the lineup if given an opportunity to show what he can do.

#2: Drake Caggiula

Caggiula was originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the Oilers in 2016. He played with various organizations before signing a two-year deal last season with the Edmonton Oilers.

He spent last season in the AHL but could earn a shot at filling Kane’s vacant spot in the lineup. With 46 goals in 282 career NHL games, Caggiula can deliver some depth scoring despite playing a predominantly bottom-six role throughout his career.

#1: Matthew Savoie

Savoie was the return for the Oilers in the Ryan McLeod trade this offseason with the Buffalo Sabres. The former first-round pick will most likely get a good look at training camp. But considering there could be an opening following Kane’s surgery, Savoie could be in the mix for a job.

The highly-skilled forward projects as a top-six player. While listed as a center, Savoie could start his NHL career on the wing before transitioning to center. It’s quite likely he will draw into the third line if given a chance.

But depending on how the season unfolds, Savoie could get a shot on the second line with Leon Draisaitl. Savoie’s high ceiling makes him the best choice to take Kane’s spot in the lineup unless the Oilers pull the trigger on a trade heading into the start of the season.