The NHL has suspended San Jose Sharks forward Evander Kane for 21 games for submitting a fake COVID-19 vaccination card.

The league announced the unpaid suspension on Monday and said Kane would not be eligible to play until Nov. 30 in New Jersey. Kane will lose about US $ 1.68 million of his $ 7 million salary for this season, with the money going to the Player’s Emergency Fund.

The league also announced that a simultaneous investigation into allegations of sexual and physical abuse made against Kane by his ex-wife, Anna, could not be substantiated.

“I would like to apologize to my teammates, the San Jose Sharks organization and all Sharks fans for violating NHL COVID protocols,” Kane said in a statement. “I made a mistake, a mistake that I sincerely regret and for which I take responsibility. During my suspension, I will continue to participate in counseling to help me make better decisions in the future. a lot of effort, determination and love for hockey. “

The Sharks have not said what Kane’s status will be after the inquiries. Kane had not been around his teammates since the start of training camp, pending investigations, under an agreement between him and the team.

“While we are encouraged by Evander’s commitment to move forward, we are extremely disappointed in his disregard for the health and safety protocols put in place by the NHL and NHLPA,” said the ‘team in a statement. “We will not comment further on Evander’s status until the mandatory NHL suspension ends.”

Kane had previously been cleared by the NHL in an investigation into Anna Kane’s allegations that he bet on hockey games, including some against the Sharks.

But the league determined that Kane violated COVID-19 protocols. A person familiar with the investigation said earlier this month that the league is investigating allegations that Kane submitted a fake vaccination card. The person spoke on condition of anonymity as details were not made public.

Using a fake vaccination card is illegal in the United States and Canada, as well as against NHL rules.

Commissioner Gary Bettman said last week that only four players on active rosters had not been vaccinated.

Kane had not been around the squad since training camp began as these investigations were ongoing in an agreement between him and the squad.

Kane, 30, has three seasons in a seven-year, $ 49 million contract. He’s with his third organization after being drafted and making his debut with Atlanta / Winnipeg and a stint at Buffalo.

Last season, he had 22 goals and 27 assists in 56 games.