A big doubt before the playoffs
With the postseason fast approaching, the Edmonton Oilers are dealing with one major question mark: Leon Draisaitl’s availability for the start of the playoffs is far from certain.
Out since March 15 after picking up an injury against the Nashville Predators, the German forward still hasn’t returned to the ice. It’s a worrying setup for a team with real ambitions this season.
Head coach Kris Knoblauch has confirmed that his player is expected to start skating again this week, but a return in the regular season now looks out of the question. As for the playoffs, that’ll depend entirely on how the recovery goes.
A return is on the table… but not right away
According to the Edmonton Oilers’ staff, a Leon Draisaitl return in the first round of the playoffs is still possible, but probably not in Game 1.
Even a partial absence would be a huge blow for Edmonton. With 97 points – 35 goals and 62 assists – in 65 games this season, Draisaitl has been one of the team’s main attacking weapons.
His knack for delivering when it matters makes him a must-have piece in the Stanley Cup chase.
An injury at the worst possible time
Draisaitl was hurt after taking a hit in a game against Nashville, following a check from Ozzy Wiesblatt. He tried to carry on for a few moments, but didn’t last long.
Since then, the 30-year-old has headed to Germany for specialist treatment, a clear sign the Draisaitl camp is doing everything it can to get him back in fighting shape for the big moments.
But the clock is against him: the regular season ends on April 16, and the playoffs start just two days later.
Hyman gives Edmonton some good news
Against that backdrop, the Edmonton Oilers do have something more encouraging to cling to with Zach Hyman.
Also injured, the Canadian forward is expected to be back before the regular season ends, possibly for one of the final games. It’s a cautious call from the staff, who’d rather hold him back and have him at 100 per cent for the playoffs.
With 51 points – 31 goals and 20 assists – in 57 games, Hyman is another crucial part of Edmonton’s attack.
McDavid calls for everyone to step up
With those absences hanging over them, Connor McDavid has made it clear the group has to pull harder.
The Oilers captain said the team needs to raise its level to cover for the missing stars, especially in these final regular-season games.
A simple message. And at a serious moment in the season.
A tense finish to the season
At 39-29-9, the Edmonton Oilers are still scrapping to lock up their playoff spot. Tied with the Anaheim Ducks at the top of the Pacific Division, nothing is settled yet.
The next few games will matter a lot, not just for qualification, but for going into the playoffs in the best possible shape.
A fragile balance before the big stage
Between the uncertainty around Leon Draisaitl and Zach Hyman’s gradual return, the Oilers are walking a tightrope.
They’ve got the talent to go deep. No question. But they’ll need all hands back at the right time.
One thing’s certain: in Edmonton, eyes are now on the treatment room just as much as the ice.
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