A Vancouver-born hockey player will sit out the first part of this year's NHL season.

That's because Evander Kane was given a 21-game suspension for violating the league's COVID-19 protocol.

The San Jose Sharks winger has apologized to his teammates and his fans.

"I made a mistake, one I sincerely regret and take responsibility for," Kane said in a statement. "During my suspension, I will continue to participate in counseling to help me make better decisions in the future. When my suspension is over, I plan to return to the ice with great effort, determination, and love for the game of hockey."

Last year, Kane scored 22 goals and posted 27 assists in 56 games.

Kane played three seasons for the Vancouver Giants in the Western Hockey League before joining the Atlanta Thrashers in 2009. 

He's also played for the Winnipeg Jets and Buffalo Sabres.