Jets scratch struggling forward Evander Kane before game vs. Maple Leafs

Evander Kane has not delivered for the Jets despite signing a big deal before last season. (Russell Lansford/Icon SMI) By Mike McMahon Just days after being

Evander Kane has not delivered for the Jets despite signing a big deal before last season. (Russell Lansford/Icon SMI)

By Mike McMahon

Just days after being eliminated from playoff contention, the Winnipeg Jets made a noticeable lineup change leading up to their game against the Toronto Maple Leafs with the decision to bench forward Evander Kane.

The 22-year-old was announced as a healthy scratch after he was not present in the team's pre-game warmups.

After taking an extended morning skate, Hockey Night In Canada speculated that the young winger might be a scratch. Jets head coach Paul Maurice did not reveal any lineup changes, but said any decision on Kane would be a "coach's decision".

Evander Kane is a healthy scratch for Jets for the first time this season. Two goals in his past 21 games. #Leafs

— Terry Koshan 🇺🇦 (@koshtorontosun) April 5, 2014

sued of an assault charge