Interesting Read on Patrick Kane Situation

Criminal investigations take time, the wheels of justice move slowly. Almost at a snail's pace. If I had to guess, I would say that this investigation probably won't be over when training camp starts in 36 days. As an NHL fan, you hope that the allegations against Patrick Kane aren't true. Obviously, you're innocent until proven guilty.

David Haugh, Chicago Tribune -- They also realize — with training camp only 37 days away — the time could come soon when they will have to make an uncomfortable decision about Kane's status that puts them in a no-win situation. Buffalo-area legal experts told the Tribune it could be weeks before forensic test results come back. It could be even longer before the Erie County District Attorney decides whether to file criminal charges.

What do the Hawks do if Kane remains in legal limbo as the Sept. 18 reporting date nears? The only way they avoid that Catch-22 is if the DA announces in the next month that no charges will be filed. But if Kane faces charges or the investigation remains open, the Hawks face a dilemma in which both sides of the debate can be defended.

Here's my side: In the post-Ray Rice era of professional sports, a first-class franchise such as the Hawks cannot allow a player facing serious allegations to represent it until more clarity about the case exists. That clarity could come sooner rather than later in Kane's case, but it is missing now.

The thing about setting a standard of excellence as high as the Hawks have is living up to it; no single player, not even a living legend, can compromise that commitment to integrity.