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Edmonton Oilers face playoff uncertainty as Zach Hyman, Mattias Ekholm injuries mount

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The Edmonton Oilers are facing a playoff nightmare as injuries continue to pile up late in the season. With key players like Zach Hyman and Mattias Ekholm going down in a crucial game against the Sharks, Edmonton ’s depth is being stretched to its limits. As the regular season winds down, the Oilers ’ playoff hopes are suddenly clouded by uncertainty and a dangerously thin roster.



Injury woes deepen as Oilers lose Hyman and Ekholm before playoff push





Friday’s game against the San Jose Sharks delivered more bad news than good. Veteran defenseman Mattias Ekholm and top goal-scorer Zach Hyman both exited early due to injuries, adding to Edmonton’s growing list of sidelined stars.


Ekholm, just back after missing seven games, logged under two minutes before leaving in the first period. His physicality and defensive IQ have been sorely missed, and his latest setback leaves another gap on the blue line. Hyman’s departure came in the second period following a hard hit from Henry Thrun. With 44 points this season, including 27 goals, his absence could significantly hurt Edmonton’s offensive output.


These losses join an already crowded injury report that includes Leon Draisaitl, Evander Kane, Jake Walman, and Trent Frederic, a brutal blow to the team’s core just three games shy of the postseason.


Connor McDavid shines in return, but Oilers’ playoff path remains fragile



Despite the challenges, the Oilers pulled off a 4-3 win earlier in the week against the St. Louis Blues, thanks to the return of Connor McDavid. Back after missing eight games, McDavid wasted no time making an impact, notching three assists including a clutch setup for the game-winner with 21 seconds left. His leadership and energy were on full display, but even he can’t do it alone.


Also Read: No more chasing—Alex Ovechkin’s hitting back as Capitals surge to top


Currently sitting third in the Pacific Division with a 45-28-5 record and 95 points, Edmonton still controls its playoff destiny. But with the lineup decimated and no clear timeline for key returns, the final stretch is anything but secure.

If the Oilers hope to make a serious postseason run, their depth will need to rise to the occasion fast. The margin for error is gone, and Edmonton is now skating against the clock.

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