Evander Kane Suspended 1 Game for Cross-Checking Pierre-Edouard Bellemare

The NHL suspended San Jose Sharks forward Evander Kane on Friday for Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals after he was assessed a major penalty and game misconduct for cross-checking Vegas Golden Knights forward Pierre-Edouard Bellemare in the third period of a 7-0 loss at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in Game 1 on Thursday. 

According to the NHL's player safety video, Kane was suspended because he cross-checked Bellemare twice, including once in the head, after the whistle had blown. 

"This cross-check occurs well after the whistle has blown and serves no purpose other than as a strike to an opponent's head. This is not a hockey play. In addition, it is important to note that while Kane asserts he did not strike at an opponent's head, there are two cross-checks on this play." 

Kane, who was acquired from the Buffalo Sabres at the trade deadline, made his presence felt during his brief regular-season run with the Sharks. In 17 games, the 26-year-old tallied nine goals and five assists. 

Kane also tied a team high with three goals in the Sharks' first-round sweep of the Anaheim Ducks. 

San Jose will now be forced to operate at a deficit in the offensive zone as it eyes a bounce-back performance on Saturday following a dreadful showing in Game 1.