Connor McDavid is back in the lineup for the Edmonton Oilers, and fans couldn't be more thrilled. After missing the last eight games due to a lower-body injury sustained during a matchup against the Winnipeg Jets on March 20, McDavid is set to take the ice against the St. Louis Blues on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. This news comes as a significant boost for the Oilers, who have been navigating a tough stretch without their captain.
Initially, there were doubts about McDavid's return. Reports indicated that he would not suit up for the game, but as the day progressed, optimism grew. Chris Johnston from TSN confirmed that McDavid will participate in warmups, after which a final decision will be made regarding his participation in the game. "Hearing that Connor McDavid will return to the #oilers lineup tonight against St. Louis," Johnston tweeted earlier in the day.
McDavid's absence has been felt keenly by the Oilers, who managed a record of 4-4-0 without him. The team struggled in games where both he and fellow superstar Leon Draisaitl were sidelined, going 1-4-0 in those instances. Draisaitl is still recovering from a lower-body injury and will also miss the game against the Blues, further emphasizing the importance of McDavid's return.
The Oilers have been dealing with a significant injury crisis, and McDavid's presence on the ice could be pivotal as they vie for a playoff spot. Currently, the Oilers sit third in the Pacific Division, four points behind the Los Angeles Kings. A win against the Blues, paired with a loss from the Calgary Flames against the Anaheim Ducks, could secure Edmonton a spot in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
McDavid's statistics this season are nothing short of impressive. Despite missing 14 games due to injury and suspension, he has recorded 26 goals and 64 assists in 63 games, totaling 90 points. This places him ninth in the NHL in points, showcasing his ability to produce at an elite level even with limited ice time. Notably, prior to his injury, McDavid was on a remarkable 13-game point streak, during which he scored 19 points. His return could reignite that scoring touch just in time for the playoffs.
Edmonton's head coach, Kris Knoblauch, had previously indicated that McDavid would miss the game, citing a cautious approach to his recovery. However, the urgency to win and secure a playoff berth may have influenced the decision to allow McDavid to return sooner than expected. The Oilers will be keen to avoid any further setbacks as they prepare for the postseason.
As the puck is set to drop at 8:00 PM MT, fans are eagerly anticipating the moment McDavid steps onto the ice. His return not only boosts the team's morale but also adds a layer of excitement to the game, as he is widely regarded as one of the best players in the league.
In addition to McDavid's return, the Oilers will have to contend with the absence of Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who is out due to illness. This leaves the team shorthanded, with just 11 forwards available for the matchup against the Blues. The Oilers will need to adapt quickly and rely on their depth players to step up in this crucial game.
As the Oilers prepare for the Blues, the stakes are high. The team is looking to solidify their playoff position, and McDavid's return could be the catalyst they need to achieve that goal. With the energy and skill he brings to the ice, fans and teammates alike are hopeful that McDavid can help drive the Oilers to victory.
In conclusion, as the Oilers gear up to face the Blues, all eyes will be on Connor McDavid. His ability to influence the game is unmatched, and his return is a pivotal moment for the team as they chase a playoff spot. The excitement is palpable, and the Oilers are ready to make their push for the postseason.
