The Edmonton Oilers are in a tough phase as the season moves toward its final stretch. They were already facing inconsistency issues this season, and now injuries are making things harder for the team. So, the focus is not just on results but also on player availability.
Among these concerns, one situation stands out more than the rest. That brings attention to Leon Draisaitl’s status and what his timeline could mean for the team.
Elliotte Friedman’s Update on Leon Draisaitl’s Return Timeline
The Oilers have had to adjust without Leon Draisaitl, and his absence has been felt across different parts of the lineup. With fans raising concerns about his return, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman shared an update that gives a clearer picture of the current situation.
Speaking on Saturday’s Headlines, Friedman explained that the timeline has not shifted despite the recent concern. He said, “So, Leon Draisaitl is in Germany, he is seeing the same doctor that Auston Matthews saw, and he did an interview where he had a quote that sent the Oilers fans into real panic. If everything goes as scheduled, basically, he hopes that the team goes far enough that he can help them.
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“And look, I looked into it, the Oilers this past week said that if everything goes as scheduled, he will be back around the end of the regular season or right at the end of the regular season. That timeline right now has not changed…
“At this point in time, like, you know, everybody would love an answer: Is he gonna be ready at the start of the playoffs? As long as he goes through everything in the rehab properly, and is not having surgery, and he was walking around there. The feeling is that the timeline has not changed; we will just have to see how it unfolds.”
Draisaitl is currently in Munich, where he is undergoing treatment with Dr. Hans-Wilhelm Müller-Wohlfahrt. The Oilers have placed him on Long-Term Injured Reserve, which rules him out for the remainder of the regular season. The focus remains on getting him ready for a possible return during the playoffs if his recovery continues without setbacks.
Oilers reporter Marc Spector also shared Draisaitl’s own words from a recent interview, which added more context to his recovery.
Draisaitl said, “I hope (to return to the ice this season); that’s the plan and the reason I’m here (in Munich) right now. It will definitely take a few weeks. That much is certain. I hope we can keep playing long enough that I’ll be able to help out again at some point… I’ll be here in Munich (with Dr. Müller-Wohlfahrt) until Tuesday. Then I’ll head back home.”
The injury took place on March 15 against the Nashville Predators when he was hit into the boards. He briefly returned for two shifts but did not play after the first period. The Oilers later confirmed it as a lower-body injury, and reports suggest that surgery will not be required.
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Before the injury, Draisaitl had 97 points in 65 games, which shows his importance to the team. His absence has placed more responsibility on Connor McDavid, while other areas like defense and goaltending continue to be a concern.
With the playoffs approaching, the Oilers are focused on staying in contention while monitoring his progress. The timeline remains unchanged for now, and the next few weeks will determine when he can return to the lineup.
