If Patrick Kane is guilty of sexual assault, then he has no business wearing an NHL uniform until after he has served his sentence. If the Blackhawks winger is indicted by a grand jury, then Chicago management and the NHL face a decision regarding his status, even if he proclaims innocence, for this would then move into the realm of public relations.

But unless and until that occurs, Kane has every right to be considered a player in good standing by the league and the Stanley Cup champions. Just because a guy is part of a union that signed rights away in the CBA doesn’t mean he has forfeited all of them. Just because Kane is a professional athlete making millions doesn’t mean “innocent until proven guilty” shouldn’t apply.

Kane’s press conference on Thursday was awkward and poorly handled. The Blackhawks — much, much better at hockey than in dealing with the media throughout their run of three Cups in the past six season — didn’t do themselves or Kane any favors in what was a largely tone-deaf performance.

Again, that doesn’t mean Kane should have been suspended. The NHL is no more a police force, investigative unit or part of the criminal justice system any more than is your employer (unless you’re a cop, PI or attorney, etc.).

continued plus some Mike Richards talk...