Oilers coach Knoblauch reveals Draisaitl and Henrique injury status
Photo credit: Tony Brar on X
Directly after Oilers practice today, coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed some bad news for Oilers fans: Leon Draisaitl is dealing with an injury.
Sam Gagner took line rushes in Draisaitl's spot in the second line, which suggests that he could be ready to go for game two. Knoblauch said that tomorrow afternoon at practice, the team will decide if Draisaitl can play.
The Oilers may be lying about the severity of Leon Draisaitl's injury
It's an extremely concerning sign for the Oilers if Leon Draisaitl isn't able to play. Last night Coach Knoblauch described Draisaitl's absence being due to cramps - but Oilers fans know that just isn't possible. Draisaitl is a machine, especially in the playoffs, and would undoubtedly play through even severe cramps. After being absent from media availability last night and practice this morning, it's looking like Draisaitl's injury could be more severe than the Oilers want to let on.
Draisaitl was in clear pain and discomfort after taking that crosscheck to the back, meaning his absence probably has little to do with cramps. Adam Henrique went through a very similar situation prior to game one, and continues to be unavailable for the starting lineup. Hopefully the Oilers are being extremely cautious and Draisaitl is able to play, but there are definitely concerning signs cropping up surrounding his health.
Previously on Oilers Daily
POLL |
MAI 9 | 166 ANSWERS Oilers coach Knoblauch reveals Draisaitl and Henrique injury status Do you think Leon Draisaitl or Adam Henrique will play in the game 2 for the Oilers? |
Draisaitl will | 41 | 24.7 % |
Henrique will | 16 | 9.6 % |
Both will | 55 | 33.1 % |
Both won't | 54 | 32.5 % |
List of polls |
|
23 minutes ago | By Ryan Hall Former NHL goalie calls out Edmonton goaltending being a major crisis |
|
1 hour ago | By Finnegan Frost Insiders reveal Oilers trade price with Sharks, roster issue holding up announcement |
|
2 hours ago | By Liam McCormick Oilers finalizing trade to acquire San Jose Sharks defenceman |
|
3 hours ago | By Liam McCormick New Oilers forward has hilarious reaction to seeing Edmonton's arena |
|
7 hours ago | By Liam McCormick Major injury update on Evander Kane revealed that will alter Oilers trade deadline plans |
|
8 hours ago | By Liam McCormick Oilers announce two regulars scratched, two players will make team debut vs Montreal Canadiens |
|
11 hours ago | By Finnegan Frost Former Oiler Oscar Klefbom opens up about returning to hockey after career ending injury |
|
22 hours ago | By Finnegan Frost Oilers linked to acquiring punishing defenceman at trade deadline |