Patrick Kane makes statement in tone deaf, unnecessary press conference appearance

Well that was unpleasant.Why did the Chicago Blackhawks want Patrick Kane on the podium Thursday? It's a fair question to ask after the questionable, unnecessary appearance by the star forward, who's currently the subject of a criminal investigation in New York, during the team's press conference to open training camp at the University of Notre Dame.

Kane claimed his innocence during his brief comments, which came from a written script that was likely crafted in conjunction with the team, and said he was excited to get back to playing hockey. Questions were then asked -- even though the team requested reporters stick to hockey-related matters -- and went largely unanswered. The whole thing…