I know nothing about Kane but the perception (at least around here and on the NHL Network) is that he is underperforming his potential. Do you agree with that and if so what do you think the issue is if not the reasons you dismissed? Just curious to know....
I think that perhaps his offensive potential was over-rated. He has great speed and physical capabilities, but he lacks some hockey sense and creativity with the puck. In Winnipeg, he's generally been paired with very mediocre line-mates due to a lack of depth, especially at center. That has constrained his production somewhat. The past couple of years he's been held back a bit by freak injuries (infected cut on his hand from a fight, broken bone in his foot from a shot-block, knee ligament strain from being run into by his own line-mate).
Still, I think he's a steady 25-30 goal scorer who plays a very effective game as a fast, aggressive, physical winger. He contributes to a very strong possession game (tilts the ice) because he is so aggressive with the puck and on the puck. He fits perfectly into the Jets' system since he uses his speed and strength to pressure the opposition all over the ice.
So, I think that the expectations of Jets fans have changed a bit for Kane. He might not be among the league's scoring leaders, but he is very important to what makes the Jets successful in their system. He also can create offense without much help from skilled linemates.
I wouldn't be surprised if he pops 35+ goals a year now and again, but it will need to be in the right circumstance.
What I really disagree with is people who take stories about his off-ice activities (basically just the occasional social media comment or picture) and translate that to his attitude as a player on the ice. He is a very hard-working and responsible player for the Jets on the ice, and his coach raves about his off-season and practice work habits and fitness.