No timetable for return: Mattias Ekholm's injury raises concern

The Edmonton Oilers are gearing up for training camp, but they'll be missing a crucial piece on the blue line.

General Manager Ken Holland recently disclosed that defenseman Mattias Ekholm will be absent due to a hip flexor injury. Unfortunately, there's no clear timetable for Ekholm's return at this point.

This news carries weight for the Oilers, who acquired Ekholm just before the 2023 NHL trade deadline, bolstering their defensive core for the playoffs. The former Nashville Predator wasted no time making an impact in Edmonton, tallying four goals and 14 points in 21 regular-season games, along with seven points in 12 playoff appearances.

Despite the setback, Ekholm's absence opens the door for young defenseman Philip Broberg to step up. Broberg saw action in a career-high 46 games with the Oilers last season but wasn't a regular fixture. This could be his opportunity to shine.

The Oilers' preseason begins with a home game against the Winnipeg Jets on Sunday, Sept. 24, followed by their regular-season opener against the Vancouver Canucks. They'll also host their home opener just three nights later. Edmonton fans will be watching closely to see how Broberg seizes his chance in Ekholm's absence.