The NHL has informed teams that it is investigating Evander Kane for crossing the U.S.-Canada border eight days after he tested positive for COVID-19 in December, reports Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.

The development will likely prevent the free-agent forward from signing a deal in the short term as teams await the investigation's results, Friedman added.

Kane reportedly tested positive for COVID-19 on Dec. 21 and flew to Vancouver on Dec. 29, according to Friedman. The San Jose Sharks apparently say that Kane didn't have medical clearance to do so.

The Sharks placed Kane on unconditional waivers Saturday for the purpose of terminating his contract, citing a "breach of his NHL Standard Player Contract and for violation of the AHL COVID-19 protocols."

The 30-year-old cleared waivers Sunday and is an unrestricted free agent. The NHLPA reportedly filed a grievance Sunday night to challenge the voiding of his contract.

Kane is free to sign elsewhere while awaiting the results of the grievance, sources told TSN's Pierre LeBrun.

Despite the controversies surrounding Kane, some teams are still showing interest.

Edmonton Oilers general manager Ken Holland confirmed Tuesday that he's spoken to Kane's agent, Dan Milstein, and said he believes in "second chances."

This isn't the first time Kane has been at the center of a league investigation.

The NHL cleared Kane in a September investigation focused on allegations from his estranged wife, Anna, that he gambled on NHL games.

Two subsequent league probes looked into Kane's alleged use of a fake vaccination card and allegations that he'd abused Anna. He was suspended 21 games for violating the NHL's COVID-19 protocol in October, while the league said the domestic abuse investigation "could not be substantiated."

Kane cleared waivers in late November before reporting to the AHL's San Jose Barracuda, where he put up eight points in five games.

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