One off ice issue from Kane could derail Chicago's franchise for a decade.
First off, they already got 3 Stanley Cups out of him in 6 years. So even if he somehow derails an entire franchise in the off-season, mission accomplished, they've achieved salary cap dynasty already. What a tragedy that could befall that franchise.
Second, if he truly does something bad enough to warrant "derailing", they could get out of the contract the same way LA did with Mike Richards. Although considering Kane has evaded charges up to this point, you have to assume the worst is over for him regarding that.
Third, Kane currently leads the NHL in scoring. Goals and points. The guy is incredible and I
hate it. Comparing the contract of a guy who has helped win 3 Cups and is one of the most prolific NHL scorers,
particularly in the playoffs, with Justin "20 goal" Abdelkader is a reach even Shaq couldn't help you with. And quite frankly, I don't understand why it would even be brought up. One is a franchise player who has consistently dominated competition on the way to championships and 114 playoff points at age 26. The other is a banger who found some chemistry with Pavel Datsyuk for a season and has 12 playoff points.
So even if I subscribe to the notion that Kane is overpaid (which I don't), the fact remains it's payment for a legitimate superstar with a track record of winning and production over his entire career. Basically all the things Abdelkader doesn't have.
OK, I feel dirty defending Kane now. I need a shower.