The Vancouver Canucks recently wrapped up a successful five-game road trip with a notable stop in Washington, D.C. where they faced the Capitals. However, it wasn’t just the game that got fans talking.
Forward Evander Kane stirred up some controversy by sharing a couple of Instagram stories featuring FBI Director Kash Patel. Kane shared a photo of himself dining with Patel, captioning it, “Great dinner and even better company.” Following a 4-3 win, he posted another picture with Patel holding a Canucks jersey alongside forward Conor Garland, with the caption, “Just a bunch of hockey guys.”
These posts by Kane didn’t sit well with some Canucks fans on social media, who expressed their disapproval on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit. Many fans were upset by Kane’s association with Patel, a known supporter of former U.S. President Donald Trump, especially considering the strained relations between the U.S. and Canada during Trump’s administration.
Criticism was also directed at the Canucks organization for allowing Patel to pose in front of their logo. Fans questioned the team’s decision to associate with someone linked to controversial political stances.
Patel’s appearance alongside Kane is not the first time he has been seen at a hockey game, having attended Washington Capitals games with Wayne Gretzky in the past, which previously upset many Canadians.
Evander Kane, a player with a history of controversies, including assault allegations and bankruptcy, has continued to be a polarizing figure for the Canucks. Despite his past troubles, Kane’s recent actions have reignited discussions about his off-ice behavior.