The Edmonton Oilers could receive a significant boost to their defense if they manage to overcome the Vegas Golden Knights in their current playoff series.
According to head coach Kris Knoblauch, defenseman Mattias Ekholm might be available to play for the Oilers should they reach the Western Conference Final. He shared this update with reporters on Tuesday.
Ekholm has been sidelined with an unspecified injury since April 11. He briefly returned for one game that night after missing seven contests but left the ice after only three shifts, indicating the injury had resurfaced or worsened.
Coach Knoblauch, whose Oilers currently lead the Golden Knights 3-1 in the series, provided insight into Ekholm`s recovery:
`Mattias has been on the ice for light skates,` said Knoblauch. `He will not be joining us this series. We`re hopeful that he can join us next series if we`re able to get to that.`
Ekholm`s return would provide crucial depth and experience to the Oilers` blue line as they push deeper into the playoffs.
Tristan Blackwood