It`s never a good situation for the Edmonton Oilers when Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are not playing.
Fortunately for the team, this has not happened often. Their recent victory over the Seattle Kraken marked only the third instance in ten seasons where both McDavid and Draisaitl were absent from the lineup, and the first time due to injuries. Previously, they were rested at the end of regular seasons before playoffs in 2021-22 and 2023-24.
Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch informed reporters on Monday that these key players are expected to remain out this week. He mentioned this situation presents an opportunity for other players to elevate their performance as the playoffs approach.
“We are hoping this will be beneficial for us in the long run,” Knoblauch stated. “Of course, we prefer to have McDavid and Draisaitl in our lineup. In the short term, it makes winning and improving our standing more challenging. However, our primary goal is to be at our peak for the playoffs. This period without them might allow other players to improve their game and gain confidence.”
Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch believes that the absence of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl could actually boost the confidence of other players on the team. He suggests that with these two superstars out, other players will have the chance to step up and take on bigger roles, which could be beneficial for the team in the long run.
Edmonton Oilers defenceman Darnell Nurse praised teammate Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, highlighting his kindness off the ice and his competitiveness on it.
