The Edmonton Oilers are still without one of their most dependable forwards, as Zach Hyman’s return from a dislocated wrist has been delayed again. Although he has been skating in practice, the medical staff has not yet cleared him to play. His absence continues to affect the Oilers, who have struggled to find the same energy and balance without his presence on the ice.
As fans await his comeback, their emotions are mixed online. Many are hopeful to see him return soon, while others are frustrated about the team’s ongoing struggles.
How Did Oilers Fans React To The Latest Zach Hyman Injury Update?
On Sunday, NHL insider Ryan Rishaug reported that Hyman was more active in practice, shooting, and participating in all drills. He wrote, “Hyman a more active participant at Oilers practice today. Shooting a fair amount and taking part in all the drills so far”.
The update immediately caught the attention of fans on X, who shared a mix of excitement and concern.
“Lolz! There’s been an emergency,” one fan humorously reacted. He pointed to the excitement that even a minor Hyman sighting in practice can stir among Oilers followers.
Another fan said, “Hyman ain’t gonna save us. Although that’s awesome, the problems are too deep right now to even be marginally excited about a return of Hyman.” He took a more measured view that Hyman’s return alone won’t fix the team’s issues.
“Injecting him won’t move the dial. He is good, but this team as a whole is in trouble,” a fan added, reflecting the growing impatience with Edmonton’s inconsistent play.
Goaltending remained the biggest talking point for the Oilers. Their starter, Stuart Skinner, has struggled to provide consistent performances in net, posting a .889% of saves.
One fan bluntly expressed, “Adding him and Kap is pointless without adding a good goalie. How many games do the Oilers have to waste with Skinner in net? How much more proof do they need to know he’s a horrible goalie? He’s a sieve!”
Despite the criticism, the excitement surrounding Hyman’s return remains evident. The 33-year-old winger has been a key piece for the Oilers since joining from the Toronto Maple Leafs and signing to a seven-year, $38.5 million contract with a $5.5 million cap hit per season. Hyman has proven his worth. In the 2024–25 campaign, he posted 27 goals and 44 points in 73 games, followed by 11 more points in the playoffs.
Also read: Zach Hyman Gets Brutally Honest on Oilers’ Rough Start to the Season
Before his injury, Hyman had built strong chemistry with Connor McDavid and was a vital contributor to the Oilers’ top line and power play. His 2023–24 season was one of the best of his career, scoring 54 regular-season goals and tying former teammate Auston Matthews for the league-high 70 total goals, including playoffs.
Even while recovering, Hyman has stayed connected to the fans. Ahead of the Stanley Cup Final in June, he wrote a message thanking supporters for their encouragement and promising to cheer on his teammates in any way he could.
