Connor McDavid injury update: Head coach provides potential return date amid Oilers’ playoff push

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Apr 1, 2025, 09:58 IST

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Connor McDavid’s return from injury remains uncertain, but a new report suggests he may come back on April 9. Meanwhile, Leon Draisaitl has returned to action, providing a crucial boost for the Edmonton Oilers. Goalie Stuart Skinner is still sidelined, adding to the team’s challenges.

Connor McDavid injury update: Head coach provides potential return date amid Oilers’ playoff push

Credit: Imagn Images

The Edmonton Oilers have faced a rough stretch of injuries at a crucial time in the season, with superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, along with goalie Stuart Skinner, all missing games. While updates on McDavid’s condition have been scarce, a new report has provided a possible timeline for his return.

Oilers remain quiet, but a report hints at Connor McDavid’s return date

Connor McDavid’s injury has been a mystery since he exited in the third period against the Winnipeg Jets. Head coach Kris Knoblauch kept details under wraps, only stating, “We are looking at a week or maybe shorter than that for Leon. Connor will be longer than that.”

Now, the 2 Mutts Hockey Podcast has given Oilers fans a glimmer of hope, reporting on X (formerly Twitter) that McDavid is expected to return on April 9 against the St. Louis Blues. Additionally, he is set to travel with the team for their California road trip. While the Oilers have yet to confirm the report, it aligns with Knoblauch’s earlier comments that McDavid would need more time to recover.

Leon Draisaitl returns, but uncertainty looms for the Oilers

While Connor McDavid’s return remains uncertain, the Oilers received a boost with Leon Draisaitl’s comeback. The German forward made an immediate impact, scoring the overtime winner against the Calgary Flames in his first game back.
Meanwhile, goalie Stuart Skinner remains sidelined after suffering a concussion in a collision with Mikko Rantanen. Knoblauch has ruled him out for upcoming games, adding to the Oilers’ challenges.
With Connor McDavid’s status still unclear, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman added a cautionary note, stating, “I have been warned that McDavid has blown past injury timelines before.” This suggests that even if April 9 is a target date, there are no guarantees.
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The Oilers are fighting for playoff positioning, and having all three stars healthy will be essential. Whether McDavid returns as expected or takes longer, his presence will be a game-changer in the postseason.

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TOI Sports Desk

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