EDMONTON — Leon Draisaitl's playoff ambitions took a hit as he was scratched due to an undisclosed injury for the Edmonton Oilers' home game against the Western Conference-leading Winnipeg Jets on Thursday night.
In a pregame update, Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch announced that Draisaitl was doubtful to play, categorizing his status as day-to-day. This decision comes on the heels of Draisaitl sustaining the injury during Edmonton's impressive 7-1 victory over Utah just two days prior, on March 18.
Knoblauch explained the team's cautious approach, especially with the playoffs just around the corner. "We feel that this is something that he probably could play through. We certainly don't want it to be an issue for the long term," Knoblauch stated. Draisaitl currently leads the NHL with 49 goals and sits second in points with 101, making his health a top priority for the Oilers as they aim for postseason success.
Draisaitl's absence raises concerns about the Oilers' depth scoring, which has seen improvement lately. With the forward out, Knoblauch indicated that he would need to adjust the team lineup outside the top unit featuring Connor McDavid, Zach Hyman, and Jeff Skinner. The adjustments could affect the Oilers' chemistry and scoring abilities, especially considering the upcoming critical games as Edmonton battles for position at the top of the Pacific Division.
The Oilers have two wins against the Jets this season and are currently gunning for home-ice advantage in the playoffs. However, the impact of Draisaitl's absence is felt acutely among fans and team members alike, with the consensus reflecting the sentiment that the star forward's health takes precedence over the immediate game.
Meanwhile, in a bit of exciting news for the Oilers, forward Evander Kane joined his teammates for an optional pregame skate — a first for the season. Kane, who has faced a lengthy recovery, remains on long-term injured reserve following abdominal surgery last September, compounded by a knee procedure in January. His return could bolster the Oilers as they head into a crucial period.
On another note, the Oilers had a surprise visitor during their morning skate. Newly installed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, an Oilers fan since his youth in Edmonton, donned an Oilers No. 24 jersey symbolizing his status as the nation’s 24th prime minister after replacing Justin Trudeau earlier this month. Carney was present to meet with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, but his appearance at the Oilers practice delighted fans and players alike.
Reflecting on the moment, Knoblauch remarked, "It's nice to have a (prime minister) who cheers for the good team." Bringing a celebratory atmosphere to the rink, Carney echoed his enthusiasm for the Oilers during their playoff push.
As the Oilers navigate injuries and lineup changes in these final games of the regular season, the health and performance of key players are more crucial than ever. The absence of Draisaitl, who is just one goal away from reaching the coveted 50-goal mark for the fourth time in his career, leaves fans hopeful for his speedy recovery. Every effort is being made to ensure that the forward returns to the ice at full strength and ready to contribute as the playoffs loom.
The Oilers find themselves second in the Pacific Division, just two points behind the first-place Vegas Golden Knights. With the stakes high, they will be looking to secure wins but will remain cautious about risking further injuries to their star players. As the playoffs approach, the careful management of Draisaitl’s injury will determine how far the Oilers can go, particularly in their pursuit of another Stanley Cup.
