EDMONTON -- The Edmonton Oilers faced a tough challenge on Thursday, March 20, 2025, as they fell to the Winnipeg Jets 4-3 in overtime, all while missing key players due to injuries. Both star forward Connor McDavid and forward Leon Draisaitl were sidelined, leaving the team in a precarious position as they aim to solidify their playoff aspirations.
McDavid exited the game with a lower-body injury sustained during the second period when he collided with Jets defender Josh Morrissey. The injury seemed innocuous enough, as McDavid had been skating into the zone and took a routine bump, but he was noticeably in discomfort and did not return for the third period or overtime.
Before leaving the ice, McDavid contributed an assist that extended his point streak to 13 games, comprising four goals and 15 assists during that stretch. For the season, he now has an impressive 90 points, which includes 26 goals and 64 assists in just 63 games.
“It was an unorthodox kind of game,” forward Zach Hyman pointed out after the match, reflecting on the challenges the team faced. With Draisaitl already ruled out due to an undisclosed injury sustained in a prior match against the Utah Hockey Club, the absence of two of the team's cornerstones was deeply felt.
Draisaitl was considered day-to-day leading up to the game, having suffered an awkward fall during the Oilers’ last outing on March 18. He was out of the lineup, leaving the Oilers without their top two scorers, a scenario that Coach Kris Knoblauch described as an opportunity for depth players to step into the limelight.
Despite McDavid’s injury, Jeff Skinner managed to make a mark by scoring twice in the matchup against the Jets. Skinner emphasized the need for the team to adapt to the unexpected circumstances. "Whatever the status is, we’ll work through it together," Skinner noted, expressing confidence in their ability to navigate such adversities.
As the game progressed, McDavid’s absence became even more pronounced, especially during critical moments. His final shift in the second period lasted a mere 18 seconds, and he was replaced towards the end by T.D. Forss, the Oilers' head athletic therapist. While in attendance, Hyman expressed hope that the team's captain would be able to return for their next game against the Seattle Kraken on March 22. “Hopefully he’s back on Saturday,” Hyman stated resolutely.
The Oilers entered the night with 84 points, sitting in second place in the Pacific Division, chasing the Vegas Golden Knights, who held the top spot with 86 points. With the playoffs approaching, every game counts, and the loss of McDavid and Draisaitl could potentially hamper their playoff ambitions. “You’re missing the two best players in the world, but we have a really good team,” Hyman stressed, remaining optimistic about his teammates’ ability to rally in the face of adversity.
Furthermore, on the cusp of an MVP-caliber season himself, Draisaitl has been exceptional this year, posting 101 points (49 goals, 52 assists) in 68 games. It would indeed be a significant blow to the Oilers if they were to miss either player for an extended duration. The overall team depth and resilience will undoubtedly be tested as the season winds down.
As the Oilers contend not only with their injuries but also with the stakes of their remaining games, Hyman believes this situation presents an opportunity for others to step up. “It’s a little different, obviously, but I think it’s an opportunity for guys to show our depth,” Hyman remarked after the game, emphasizing the need for players to rise to the occasion when called upon.
The loss against Winnipeg serves as a wake-up call for the Oilers, highlighting the critical role both McDavid and Draisaitl play in their overall success. They have faced adversity before, and their ability to overcome these challenges will be crucial as they finish the season strong.
In conclusion, the Edmonton Oilers are entering a pivotal phase of the season. With their next game against the Seattle Kraken on the horizon, all eyes are on the recovery status of McDavid and Draisaitl. The depth of the team will be tested, and how well they navigate this adversity could define their playoff journey.
