Playoff runs are inherently influenced by injuries, both the ones a team suffers and the ones it manages to avoid.
Crucial to success are the players sidelined by unfortunate events – a blocked shot or a questionable hit – and those who manage to endure the physical toll of the sport`s most demanding championship pursuit.
The Edmonton Oilers faced considerable concern when news broke that top defenseman Mattias Ekholm might be out for the entire playoffs. However, mid-way through their first-round series against Los Angeles, John Klingberg made a surprising comeback from a three-year struggle with injuries, including hip resurfacing surgery. His return has unexpectedly provided the Oilers with invaluable minutes on the blue line.
Evander Kane missed an entire season after undergoing two surgeries. Typically, players returning from such a long absence aren`t expected to contribute immediately, right?
Remarkably, after 10 months away from the game, Kane has already recorded points in three of his first six playoff games and has provided the physical presence the Oilers lacked throughout the regular season.
Tristan Blackwood