Patrick Kane dropped from EA Sports NHL 16 cover

CHICAGO (WLS) -- EA Sports is dropping Chicago Blackhawks star Patrick Kane from promoting its NHL 16 video game because of an ongoing police investigation in New York. No charges have been filed.

The popular video game company announced its decision Wednesday on Twitter: "In light of the ongoing investigation involving Patrick Kane, he will no longer be a spokesperson for the launch of EA Sports NHL 16. He will not appear on the EA Sports NHL 16 cover, nor participate in other EA Sports NHL 16 promotional activities."

The original plan for the cover of NHL 16 depicted Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, side-by-side, hoisting the Stanley Cup. But now, Kane's image will be removed altogether.

"They avoid a potential significant problem," said Marc Ganis, a Chicago-based sports business consultant.

Ganis says it's the right move because it's unclear what Kane faces legally in the weeks ahead. Right now, The Buffalo News reports Kane is under investigation for raping a woman at his lakefront home in Hamburg, NY. Given that allegation, Ganis says the Blackhawks organization has the most lose since Kane is the face of the franchise.

"I would think that they've got plans already in place," Ganis said. "So that whatever happens, they're prepared. Hoping for the best, but planning for something that may not be the best."

It's unclear how long the investigation will take. On Wednesday, Frank Sedita III, the district attorney for the Buffalo area, would only say this about the hockey player: "I know ya'll want to ask me about Patrick Kane. I will not comment about Patrick Kane."

Kane has represented at least four other companies, including Bauer, which sells hockey gear. A company spokesman says they're "obviously aware" of the investigation and are "closely monitoring the situation."

Chevy ads have also featured Kane. A local representative said he has "absolutely no comment. I just have no comment on the situation at all."

Gatorade and BMO Harris Bank have also featured Kane in their advertisements.