Edmonton Oilers Share Concerning Post-Olympic Injury Update
With the 2026 Winter Olympics now wrapped up, NHL players are rejoining their clubs as the 2025-26 season resumes. But for the Oilers, the return from international play hasn’t come without complications.
Team captain Connor McDavid is back in Edmonton after earning a silver medal with Team Canada, falling short of his gold-medal hopes. The runner-up finish mirrors the Oilers’ recent Stanley Cup Final losses to the Florida Panthers, who have denied Edmonton in back-to-back championship series.
As the Oilers prepare for another potential deep playoff push, they’re already dealing with injury concerns. McDavid, who hasn’t missed a regular-season game so far, will not suit up when Edmonton faces the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday.
Head coach Kris Knoblauch suggested the quick turnaround following Olympic play — including international travel and heavy minutes — makes an immediate return unlikely.
Knoblauch noted that asking McDavid to log 23–24 minutes in back-to-back games right after competing overseas wouldn’t put him in the best position to help the team long term. The hope is that he could be ready to rejoin the lineup by the weekend.
During the Olympic gold medal game against Team USA, McDavid was seen with multiple fingers taped, hinting at a possible hand issue that may now require rest.
Kasperi Kapanen Also Unavailable
McDavid isn’t the only absence for Edmonton. Forward Kasperi Kapanen, who has already missed 39 games this season due to injury, will not be ready to return Wednesday either.
Knoblauch indicated Kapanen may need additional time before reentering the lineup, especially after such a lengthy layoff. While he’s progressing, the first two games back appear too soon.
Adam Henrique Provides Positive News
There is some encouraging news for the Oilers. Veteran forward Adam Henrique is expected to return after being sidelined since early January following a shot-blocking injury.
Henrique said the Olympic break helped his recovery timeline, allowing him to regain conditioning and rejoin practices at full speed. With extra time to ramp up, he feels ready to contribute as the team looks to sharpen its game for the stretch run.
While Edmonton awaits McDavid’s return, Henrique’s availability offers a timely boost as the Oilers resume their push toward the postseason.
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