Edmonton’s blue line might get a major boost. Veteran defenseman Mattias Ekholm is close to rejoining the lineup as the Oilers prepare for Game 4 against the Dallas Stars.
Oilers’ Mattias Ekholm Nearing Return Ahead of Game 4 Against Stars
Head coach Kris Knoblauch said on Monday, May 26, that Ekholm is still considered day-to-day, and his status for the matchup on Tuesday, May 27, remains uncertain. Edmonton holds a 2-1 series lead and has won 10 of its last 12 games. Though the team has performed well in Ekholm’s absence, his return would further solidify the defense.
Ekholm last played on April 11, leaving the regular-season game early with a lower-body injury. He made brief efforts to come back before the playoffs began but hasn’t played a postseason game yet.
“I feel really good,” Ekholm said. “Whether I think it’s imminent, I think it’s going to be soon at least, and whether it’s tomorrow or the next game, or whatever it is, I’m happy with my body.”
“I think it’s gonna be soon. Whether it’s tomorrow or the next game or whatever it is, I’m happy with my body & the way I feel. Really excited about where the team’s at & how they’re playing.”
Mattias Ekholm on his potential return.@Enterprise | #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/qqTel9l4k2
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) May 26, 2025
Knoblauch emphasized that any decision will prioritize both team performance and Ekholm’s health. Since arriving from Nashville in early 2023, Ekholm has been a major piece on Edmonton’s back end.
Often partnered with Evan Bouchard, Ekholm’s defensive steadiness and poise have been missed. His experience could be key down the stretch.
Oilers Face Roster Questions With Ekholm Nearing Return
Even if Ekholm is ready, Edmonton must decide whether to alter a lineup that has been clicking. Troy Stecher and John Klingberg have filled in effectively. Stecher stepped in for Ty Emberson and has logged quality minutes, while Klingberg scored in the 6-1 Game 3 win.
Knoblauch called it a “difficult situation,” hinting at the possibility of dressing seven defensemen to keep the chemistry intact.
“I don’t want to take anyone out,” Knoblauch said. “If you go with seven defensemen, your rotation, the rhythm changes. But, also, you might have to take out somebody that doesn’t deserve to be taken out. Things that we’re pondering right now.”
Ekholm, who turned 35 recently, acknowledged that teammates have stepped up: “Stecher’s been great,” he said. “All these guys have come in and play really well.”
Still, Ekholm stressed his focus is on helping the team win, not rushing back for the sake of it. This would be his first appearance in the 2025 playoffs.
“I knew my injury wasn’t going to be [a] second-round [return] at all,” he said. “If I do come in, it’s just a matter of keeping it simple and trying to fit in. I’ve played with these
guys for a bit, so I do not worry too much about that.”
Elsewhere, forward Connor Brown will miss Game 4 after taking a hit from Alex Petrovic. Goalie Calvin Pickard returned to practice and could back up Stuart Skinner.
As Game 4 approaches, all attention turns to Ekholm’s potential return and how the Oilers adapt if their key defender suits up.
