NHL Playoffs 2025:Oilers Stars McDavid and Draisaitl Set to Return

The Edmonton Oilers are getting some big names back just in time for the playoffs! Superstar Connor McDavid has returned after being out for a bit, and Leon Draisaitl should be back very soon too. If you’re an Oilers fan, this is the kind of news that puts a smile on your face — maybe even makes you do a little fist pump.

Let’s break down what’s happening with the team, how the injured players are doing, and what this means as we head into the most exciting part of the hockey season.

McDavid Came Back and Made Magic Happen

Connor McDavid missed eight games because of a lower-body injury. That’s a long time to be without your best player. But on April 9, he made his big return — and wow, did he deliver! He got three assists in the game, including one that helped win it with just 21 seconds left. Classic McDavid, right?

He looked fast, smart, and like he hadn’t missed a beat. And the crowd? They went wild.

I remember watching that game thinking, “Yep, this guy is something special.” It felt like the team got its heartbeat back.

Taking It Slow and Smart

The Oilers were careful with McDavid. They didn’t rush him back, which is smart. You don’t want to mess around with injuries, especially when the playoffs are around the corner. Now that he’s back, they’ll probably ease him in — not too much ice time all at once — so he stays healthy and ready to go full force when it matters most.

Draisaitl’s Turn Next

While we’re all smiling about McDavid being back, we’re still waiting on Leon Draisaitl. He hurt his lower body too and has been out since April 3. But the good news? Coach Kris Knoblauch says they expect him back before the regular season ends.

And that’s awesome, because Draisaitl is a big deal. He scores goals, sets up plays, and works really well with McDavid. You know how Batman has Robin? That’s what Draisaitl is like on this team — a superstar sidekick (who could also be Batman himself, honestly).

Other Players Dealing With Injuries Too

It’s not just McDavid and Draisaitl. The Oilers have had a bunch of players banged up lately. Here's a quick look:

• Ryan Nugent-Hopkins was sick, but he should be back soon.
   

• Mattias Ekholm has missed a few games, and we’re not sure when he’s back.
   

• John Klingberg hurt his lower body and hasn’t played since late March.
   

• Stuart Skinner, one of the goalies, is out with a head injury.
   

• Evander Kane is dealing with a sports hernia and knee problems. He probably won’t be back until the playoffs start — if at all.
   

Yeah, it’s a long list. But injuries happen in hockey. It’s a tough game.

The Team’s Stepping Up Big Time

You might think losing all these big names would mess up the team — but guess what? The Oilers have held it together. Other players have really stepped up.

One cool example? Connor Brown scored the game-winning goal against the Blues after a sweet pass from McDavid. That kind of stuff shows how deep this team is. Everyone’s doing their part, and it’s paying off.

Coach Knoblauch is doing a great job managing the lineup, making sure things don’t fall apart even with key players out. He’s been like a puzzle master, putting the right pieces in the right spots.

Playoffs Are Almost Here – What’s Next?

The playoffs are coming fast, and if McDavid and Draisaitl are both healthy, the Oilers are going to be a very scary team to play against.

They’ve got a few more games left in the regular season — tough ones, too — but those games are the perfect chance to get back into rhythm and build up momentum.

Also, if you're trying to keep up with the games and highlights, some fans check out NHL Streams free on sportsurge — just a heads-up for those looking to follow along.

If the full team is healthy? Watch out, NHL. The Oilers could really go far this year.

FAQs

Is Connor McDavid playing again?

Yes! He came back on April 9 and got three assists. He looked great.

What about Draisaitl?

He’s still out but should be back before the playoffs.

Is Evander Kane playing soon?

He’s hurt and probably won’t return until the playoffs — if he comes back at all.

How are the Oilers doing with so many injuries?

Surprisingly well! Other players have stepped up and kept the team strong.

Conclusion

Let’s be honest — it was getting a little scary there for a while. So many stars were out, and it felt like the team might struggle. But now? McDavid is back, Draisaitl is close, and the Oilers are looking like they’re getting back on track just when it matters most.

If they can stay healthy and keep playing like this, we might be in for something special this spring. Could this be the year Edmonton finally brings the Cup back home?

We’ll have to wait and see — but for now, things are looking up.