The Edmonton Oilers are facing a challenging start to the Stanley Cup playoffs as they contend with a lengthy injury list, particularly ahead of their first-round matchup against the Los Angeles Kings. This marks the fourth consecutive year that these two teams will meet in the playoffs, and the stakes have never been higher. With key players sidelined, the Oilers are determined to rally their remaining talent and fans in the Ice District are holding onto hope.
As the Oilers prepare for their playoff run, the absence of star players looms large. Head coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed on Monday, April 14, 2025, that the team would be without defenseman Mattias Ekholm for at least the first round of the playoffs. Ekholm, a pivotal presence on the blue line, recently returned to action but aggravated an undisclosed injury during a game against the San Jose Sharks, leaving fans concerned about the team's defensive capabilities.
“Losing a top-pairing defenseman before the playoffs even start, likely for the whole thing, is not good,” said Mark Spector from Sportsnet, reflecting the sentiment of many fans who recognize Ekholm's importance to the Oilers' playoff aspirations.
In addition to Ekholm, the Oilers will also be without captain Connor McDavid, who is resting as a precaution, and forward Zach Hyman, who has been ruled out for the game against the Kings on April 14. “I’ve got a list here because it’s a long one,” Spector noted, emphasizing the severity of the Oilers' injury situation.
Despite these setbacks, there is a glimmer of hope for the Oilers. Forward Leon Draisaitl is expected to return for the series after dealing with a nagging injury, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is back in the lineup after recovering from illness. “It’s looking good for Evander Kane to make his season debut that night,” Knoblauch added, raising spirits among fans who have missed Kane's presence on the ice.
Kane has not played in an NHL game for 308 days, having been sidelined due to long-term injuries. “If you ask if I can be ready for Game 1… I could barely skate in the playoffs last year. If you’re comparing how I feel now to last year, I’m ready to go,” Kane expressed, highlighting his determination to contribute to the team’s playoff efforts.
While Kane’s return is uncertain, Oilers fans are optimistic. “You know, it kind of sucks, but I think they need a little rest anyway to pump them up for the playoffs. So when they come back, they’ll be 100 percent and good to go,” said one local fan in the Ice District.
The atmosphere in the Ice District is electric as fans prepare for the playoffs, and many are hopeful that the Oilers can overcome their injury woes. “I know there’s a lot of people injured, but on the other hand, the guys who have been playing on the team have been playing pretty good, I think,” another fan remarked, pointing to the resilience shown by the remaining roster.
The Oilers' recent game against the Kings was a tense affair, with emotions running high as both teams gear up for the playoffs. Darnell Nurse received a five-minute major and game misconduct for cross-checking Kings forward Quinton Byfield in the head, a move that drew criticism and concern. “I think they just have their B squad in trying to hurt us,” Kings forward Phillip Danault stated, while Oilers forward Corey Perry dismissed the accusation, emphasizing that the team was simply trying to compete under difficult circumstances.
As the Oilers prepare for their final regular-season game against the San Jose Sharks on April 16, 2025, they are mindful of the challenges ahead. The Kings can clinch home-ice advantage in the first-round series with a win against the Oilers, adding extra pressure to the upcoming match.
While the Oilers have advanced past the Kings in each of the previous three playoff meetings, this year’s matchup presents unique challenges. With key players missing and a history of tough battles, the Oilers will need to dig deep to maintain their postseason success.
As the playoffs approach, the Oilers are not just competing for victory; they are also playing for their fans, who have shown unwavering support throughout the season. “Not great — not good. I’m not worried about the team or anything, but it would’ve been good to see some of our all-stars playing tonight, that’s all,” one fan reflected, capturing the mixed emotions of anticipation and concern.
The Oilers' journey through the playoffs will be closely watched, with fans hoping for a deep run despite the obstacles. The team's ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be crucial as they face off against the Kings in what promises to be another thrilling chapter in their playoff rivalry.
With the playoffs just around the corner, the Oilers are prepared to battle through adversity, aiming to prove that they are still a force to be reckoned with in the Stanley Cup chase.
