The Chicago Blackhawks brought troubled star Patrick Kane to face the media at the start of training camp Thursday, following its announcement that the three-time Stanley Cup winner will be attending camp despite an ongoing rape investigation in Erie County, NY, Puck daddy reports.

"The Chicago Blackhawks organization prides itself in trying to make calculated and deliberate decisions based on information we have at present time," team president John McDonough said. "We recognize that Patrick Kane is dealing with a very serious situation. Based on our discussions with his legal representatives, who are very close to this matter, we have decided to have Patrick join us for training camp. Furthermore, we have utmost respect for the legal process."

Kane followed that up by reading a prepared statement.

"This has been an incredibly difficult time for many people," Kane said. "I cannot apologize enough for the distraction this has caused my family, my teammates, this incredible organization and, of course, our fans. I am confident that when all the facts are brought to light, I will be absolved of having done nothing wrong."

As Puck Daddy notes, it was announced that Kane would then only answer questions about hockey, and nothing related to the accusations he is facing.

Kane, though, had a succinct, yet evasive response to questions teetering on the issue.

"I appreciate the question," Kane replied to questions like being asked if he felt he embarrassed the organization.

He also gave the same response when asked if he considered staying at home to avoid being a distraction at camp, and if he has considered quitting drinking regardless of how the investigation turns out.

"This was a terrible idea by himself, the team and his agent," an NHL player agent told Puck Daddy via text. "This is doing everything they didn't want to do."