The Edmonton Oilers will continue to play without their captain, Connor McDavid, for at least two more games.
Head coach Kris Knoblauch informed reporters on Sunday that McDavid will not participate in the team`s next two matchups. However, there is optimism that he will be back on the ice before the regular season concludes.
McDavid sustained a lower-body injury during a game against the Winnipeg Jets on March 20. He exited the game prematurely and has not played in the subsequent four games.
Regarding McDavid`s return, Knoblauch mentioned on Sunday, “We have an estimated timeframe for his return, and it will not be within the next couple of games. We anticipate his return before the end of the regular season… The primary focus is ensuring he is completely healthy and ready for the playoffs.”
McDavid was absent from Sunday`s team practice. Starting goaltender Stuart Skinner also missed practice as he recovers from an injury resulting from a collision with Stars forward Mikko Rantanen on Wednesday.
In positive news for the Oilers, Leon Draisaitl has returned to full health. Draisaitl played in Saturday`s game against the Calgary Flames, where he scored two goals, including the game-winning goal in overtime, bringing his league-leading goal total to 51.
The Oilers are currently tied for second place in the Pacific Division with the Los Angeles Kings, both with 89 points, although the Kings have played one less game.
Edmonton is scheduled to face the Vegas Golden Knights in a critical divisional game in Vegas on Tuesday.
Tristan Blackwood