Leon Draisaitl Returns to Oilers Practice: Injury Status Ahead of Stanley Cup Playoffs
The Edmonton Oilers are racing toward the postseason and the team just received a significant boost. Star forward Leon Draisaitl returned to practice with the team on Monday, April 13, marking his first time skating with teammates since a lower-body injury sidelined him in mid-March. Although his presence on the ice is a positive sign, Draisaitl remains cautious about his availability for the start of the Stanley Cup Playoffs this Saturday.
The Road to Recovery: Where Draisaitl Stands
Draisaitl’s return to full team practice is the latest step in a carefully managed recovery process. While he confirmed he has been back on the ice since early last week, he emphasized that returning to a game environment requires meeting specific milestones.
“There’s steps that I have to follow and there are certain things that I have to be able to do,” Draisaitl stated. “I’m not there yet right now, so we’ll see how that is by the end of the week or whenever Game 1 would be.”
Despite the uncertainty regarding the opening game, Draisaitl reported feeling “pretty good” and “fine,” noting that the recovery is progressing one day at a time. The Oilers’ coaching staff has prioritized patience, aiming to ensure the forward is fully fit to avoid any potential setbacks during the high-intensity playoff run.
Breaking Down the Injury: What Happened on March 15
The injury occurred during a 3-1 victory over the Nashville Predators on March 15. Draisaitl had just scored the game’s opening goal on a power play before being hit by Predators forward Ozzy Wiesblatt at 4:20 of the first period.
Although Draisaitl attempted to play two more shifts at the end of the first period, he did not return for the second or third. Reflecting on the moment, Draisaitl noted that he knew immediately that the injury was serious, stating, “I felt that this was something that was a little more serious. You feel it right away.” Following the game, the Oilers announced that Draisaitl was expected to miss the remainder of the regular season.
Impact on the Edmonton Oilers’ Postseason Hopes
Draisaitl is a cornerstone of the Oilers’ offense, having contributed 35 goals during the 2025-26 regular season. His ability to drive play and finish opportunities makes his health a critical factor for Edmonton’s success in the first round.
As a former Art Ross and Hart Trophy winner, Draisaitl brings an elite level of experience to the lineup. Having also secured the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy as the league’s leading goal-scorer in 2025, his return—whether in Game 1 or shortly thereafter—could drastically shift the Oilers’ scoring dynamics.
- Current Status: Returned to full team practice on Monday, April 13, 2026.
- Injury Detail: Lower-body injury sustained via a hit from Ozzy Wiesblatt on March 15.
- Playoff Timeline: Postseason begins Saturday; status for Game 1 remains uncertain.
- Season Impact: Draisaitl recorded 35 goals in the 2025-26 regular season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Leon Draisaitl get injured?
Leon Draisaitl sustained a lower-body injury on March 15, 2026, during a game against the Nashville Predators.
Will Leon Draisaitl play in Game 1 of the playoffs?
It is currently uncertain. While he has returned to practice, Draisaitl has stated he is “not there yet” and must complete specific recovery steps before he can return to game action.
How many goals did Draisaitl score this season?
Draisaitl scored 35 goals during the 2025-26 NHL regular season.
As the Oilers prepare for Saturday’s opener, all eyes remain on Draisaitl’s progress. Whether he starts the series or joins the lineup later in the first round, his return will be a pivotal moment for Edmonton’s championship aspirations.