Ad News Live
April 12, 2025
NHL Edmonton Oilers News: The Edmonton Oilers have officially secured a spot in the NHL playoffs for 2025. They reached that point after 78 games.
They're in now, though. But because of the injuries, this playoff berth feels different.
Their 4-2 win over the San Jose Sharks on Friday night guaranteed them a postseason place for the sixth straight year.
They only needed one point to guarantee that they would not be overtaken by the Calgary Flames for third place in the Pacific Division.
But the celebration didn’t last long.
The team was getting ready to punch their ticket when key players started falling down. Evander Kane, Zach Hyman, Mattias Ekholm, and Leon Draisaitl are all dealing injuries.
READ ALSO
Josh Johnson Returns to Commanders on One-Year Deal!
According to coach Kris Knoblauch, at least one of Hyman or Ekholm may not be ready for Game 1. With just a few days left before the postseason, it is a major worry.
Ekholm had recently recovered from an injury to his lower body. But he only worked three shifts before he left the game following an unfortunate fall.
During the second period, Hyman left and did not come back. The Oilers had just 11 forwards and five defensemen at the end of the contest.
Draisaitl has missed eight of the last eleven games and four in a row. But he wants to exercise caution, he hopes to return before the playoffs start.
READ ALSO
Texas Tech vs Arkansas: Darrion Williams Leads Epic Sweet 16 Comeback
Another key Boston committing, Trent Frederic, is also doubtful for the playoffs due to an ankle injury suffered in his debut.
Both physically and in terms of form, the Oilers are obviously limping into the playoffs.
They have only won 14 of their last 29 games since January 30. Not the best start to the year's most important period.
All season, Evander Kane has not played. It's still unclear if he will be ready for the playoffs.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Jake Walman are also sidelined, but they could return back soon.
John Klingberg, a defenseman, will miss the rest of the regular season for having been placed on LTIR.
Still, there’s a bit of good news.
It's Connor McDavid again. He made an incredible comeback after missing eight games, providing seven assists in just two games.
McDavid's outstanding play was welcomed by coach Knoblauch as "remarkable."
READ ALSO
Treysen Eaglestaff Commits to South Carolina Over Elite Schools
Stuart Skinner, the goalie, has also been given the all-clear to return and will face Calvin Pickard for the starting spot in the playoffs.
"We will start the goalie who gives us the best chance to win," Knoblauch said clearly. No names have been confirmed as of yet.
With three games left, the Oilers must resolve all issues, including goaltending, injuries, and lineups.
More questions than answers exist. Veterans like Corey Perry are not giving up.
"Guys can't play if they can't," he said. But there is a group here that is ready to step up. We will overcome this.
Stay tuned for more NHL Edmonton Oilers News as the drama unfolds.
Follow Us
AD News Live
