Sharks' Kane: 'I stand by' criticism of officials

San Jose Sharks forward Evander Kane isn't changing his stance on NHL referees after serving his three-game suspension for abuse of officials.

"I'm sure you guys have heard my comments about it after the game," Kane said, according to the Mercury News' Curtis Pashelka. "I stand by what I said."

Kane's suspension came after an altercation with a linesman during the team's preseason finale against the Vegas Golden Knights on Oct. 1.

The 28-year-old opted not to appeal the suspension due to the Sharks' busy schedule to start the season and the lengthy process that comes with a formal review.

"That's what's in the CBA, that's what is in the rulebook," Kane said. "No matter what I guess transpires, the player's accountable for it. Doesn't make a lot of sense, but it is what it is."

The Sharks have opened the season with three straight losses and take on the Nashville Predators on Tuesday.