Oilers insiders reveal troubling injury update on Jake Walman and Trent Frederic before playoffs
Photo credit: Derek Van Diest on X
The Edmonton Oilers are entering the playoffs with multiple players still dealing with injury, and now, there's serious concern about Trent Frederic and Jake Walman.
The Oilers have already lost Mattias Ekholm to injury for the entire series against Los Angeles Kings, and if they lose Walman too, their blue line will have gone from a strength to a dire weakness.
Insiders raise concern that Jake Walman, Trent Frederic are not ready to play
Frederic and Walman were both present at practice today, with the Oilers' defenceman even taking part in line rushes.
However, insider Mark Spector observed that Trent Frederic doesn't look close to playing yet - and even more concerning, Jake Walman is further behind.
In addition, Oilers insider Jason Gregor has hinted today that another defenceman besides Ekholm may become unavailable through the Kings' series due to injury.
We know that Mattias Ekholm, without question, will not be in the lineup. Trent Frederic, not sure. And, heard a little bit of rumblings that maybe a defenceman.
- Jason Gregor
- Jason Gregor
Trent Frederic has been questionable for the playoffs ever since he was acquired by the Oilers, so there's no surprise there - and they should survive without him. Hopefully he can perform in the playoffs, or otherwise this deal will look disastrous.
Serious concern raised for Jake Walman's playoff availability
Jake Walman last played nearly two weeks ago, and has since missed all games and most practices with an undisclosed injury.
Coach Knoblauch and Walman himself have been optimistic that he'll be able to play in the playoffs, but it seems that he's still on the brink of being cleared.
Even if he doesn't end up playing Game 1, there could be real concern that he's not fully healthy or could re-aggravate the issue. Still, taking reps in practice should indicate a return isn't too far away.
With the Oilers already missing Ekholm, missing Jake Walman would put them into a disaster on the blue line. Hopefully he will get the clearance to play Game 1, and he can stay healthy through a long playoff run.
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AVRIL 18 | 952 ANSWERS Oilers insiders reveal troubling injury update on Jake Walman and Trent Frederic before playoffs Do you think the Oilers will be healthy enough for a long playoff run? | ||
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| No | 331 | 34.8 % |
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