injury-status-and-face-extremely-tough-decision” title=”Oilers update Leon Draisaitl … status and face extremely tough …”>Leon Draisaitl‘s Status Uncertain for Oilers’ Clash with Jets

Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl is listed as doubtful for tonight’s game against the Winnipeg Jets at Rogers Place. The 29-year-old sustained an undisclosed injury during the second period of Tuesday’s 7-1 victory over the Utah Hockey Club. Draisaitl collided with defenseman Olli Maatta, resulting in a fall to the ice. He completed the game, logging 22:23 of ice time, but did not participate in Wednesday’s practice or Thursday’s morning skate.

Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch addressed Draisaitl’s status, stating,

"Leon is doubtful to play tonight and we'll treat this as day-to-day. We'll need guys obviously stepping up with Leon's absence, the way he's been playing not necessarily lately but for the entire season."

Knoblauch emphasized the importance of caution as the team approaches the end of the regular season and the upcoming playoffs:

"It's definitely being cautious. We're near the end of the regular season, hitting the playoffs. We want 100 percent from Leon when he's healthy and this is something we do not want to linger."

Draisaitl has been instrumental for the Oilers this season, leading the NHL with 49 goals and ranking second in points with 101 (53 assists). Notably, he has not missed a game this season. The Oilers currently hold a 40-24-4 record, placing them second in the Pacific Division, just two points behind the Vegas Golden Knights.

In Draisaitl’s potential absence, the Oilers will look to other key players to step up. Forward Viktor Arvidsson, who has been contributing offensively, commented on the team’s approach:

"I think we're just playing quicker with the puck and we're not putting ourselves in positions where we can turn it over."

The Oilers are set to face the Winnipeg Jets, who lead the Western Conference with a 47-18-4 record. The game is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET at Rogers Place. Fans can watch the game on Sportsnet West or listen live on the Oilers Radio Network, including 880 CHED. (nhl.com)

For more information on the game and team updates, visit the official Edmonton Oilers website.