Oilers lose another top six forward to injury, get good news on Draisaitl at practice

Tonight's game against the Ducks will be a significant one for the Oilers too, as they have an opportunity to clinch their playoff spot.

The good news at Oilers practice is that Leon Draisaitl was able to get back on the ice after suffering another injury against the San Jose Sharks. Draisaitl skated well at practice and wasn't in a no-contact jersey, but isn't yet expected to return to play.

The bad news at practice is that Trent Frederic did indeed re-aggravate his injury in his Oilers debut, and is expected to miss more time.

Frederic was injured when the Oilers acquired him, and reports surfaced that he may in fact not be able to play until the playoffs. He was able to play against the Los Angeles Kings last game, but only lasted 7 minutes of ice time with his injury.

It's extremely unfortunate that Frederic is near unable to play so close to the playoffs. In the very brief moments he played, the power forward was a great pest presence and looked like a quality piece. It's a big loss that the Oilers paid so much for a player who can't play.

In addition, the Oilers are confirming that rookie goaltender Olivier Rodrigue will make his first NHL start tonight against the Anaheim Ducks. It'll be a big start for him, and if the Oilers win they could also clinch a playoff spot.

According to Oilers reporters at practice, their heavily injured make-shift lineup will be as follows:

It'll be a great opportunity for a test for Rodrigue, and the Oilers are still searching to officially punch their ticket for the playoffs. However, now their only goal needs to be getting their stars healthy and ready to play for Game 1.