Hi, this is Fred Wallace with ” Off the Wire “,….. proudly sponsored by Pete’s Auto Body.
Pete’s Auto Body; because we care about our community….
I have a hard time believing the allegations of improper gambling against San Jose Sharks forward Evander Kane.
Kanes’ soon-to-be ex-wife, Anna, went on Instagram and essentially called her soon-to-be ex-husband a compulsive gambler and claimed he was throwing games to win money by betting against the Sharks
In response Evander Kane stated he would cooperate fully with the National Hockey League investigation and stressed that he has NEVER gambled or bet on Hockey & NEVER gambled or bet on a Sharks game.
And I almost believe Evander Kane…..
Not because he’s adamant in his denial.
And certainly not because he has a record of perfect behaviour when it comes to gambling
I just believe that throwing a hockey game is next to impossible for an individual player.
Like the Black Sox in baseball or Boston College in basketball, you need help, a lot of help to pull such a stunt, and based on any pro hockey player I’ve ever known, I find it hard to believe anyone could be convinced to participate in such a scheme.
Furthermore in hockey, players are monitored and evaluated on a shift to shift basis by coaches, video coaches, managers and especially by their teammates. You might get away with one lacklustre play, but a repeat play means you’re planted firmly on the bench, unlikely to see the ice again and shunned by your teammates until your level of play returns to an acceptable professional level.
It’s well documented that Evander Kane gambles and has had money issues. The suit by a Vegas Casino for unpaid debts and a filing for bankruptcy illustrates that clearly.
But does that mean Evander Kane bet against his team ? I find that hard to believe.
For Pete’s Auto Body, I’m Fred Wallace.