(Edmonton) The state of health of Edmonton Oilers star player Connor McDavid will be re-evaluated on a daily basis, and his presence in Wednesday’s game against the Vegas Golden Knights is uncertain.
McDavid did not practice Tuesday, and Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch said he will speak with the center Wednesday.
Knoblauch said McDavid’s absence from practice Tuesday was due to a combination of factors, namely a “lower body injury” and “treatment.”
“The most important thing is that we are ready for the playoffs,” Knoblauch said. We have good depth. We will never be able to replace Connor, but we have several good healthy players.
“We want to make sure everyone is healthy when we start our playoff journey,” he summarized.
McDavid started Tuesday third in points on the Bettman circuit with 130 points, and he also dominates the assist column with 99 assists.
In addition, the Oilers recalled center Dylan Holloway from their Bakersfield farm club.
The Oilers will enter Wednesday’s game in second place in the Pacific Division with 99 points, five points behind the Vancouver Canucks and with two games left. The Oilers will host the Canucks on Saturday.
The Oilers players understand that there has to be a certain balance between wanting to win the sectional title and making sure to have everyone fresh and available for the first game of the playoffs.
Zach Hyman, who scored 52 goals this season, said he saw several teams start a winning streak before spring ball, only to continue it in the playoffs.
“Obviously we’re going to change some things depending on the standings, but we want to get the sectional title if we get the chance. I believe it is doable at the moment.
“It’s always good to play for something until the end. You want to maintain this will to win. It’s always important to start the series by offering your best. These last six games, we have to play them like we plan to do in the playoffs. »
Leon Draisaitl, who has 102 points this season, said there is a fine line between going all out for the sectional title and making sure he has all his players in the best shape possible for the first round.
“You definitely don’t want to get tired before the playoffs start,” Draisaitl said. The section title is worth it, but, once again, there is a thin line. We want to continue winning and collect points to possibly win the title. On the other hand, there is no need to tire anyone out before the first playoff game. »