Report: Oilers dealt a massive injury blow as veteran will be sidelined for more than a month

The Edmonton Oilers are getting ready for the tough playoffs in the Western Conference, but they just faced a big setback.

As reported by Oilers Access and confirmed by head coach Kris Knoblauch, experienced player Curtis Lazar will be out for at least a month because of a new injury.

For a team aiming for the Stanley Cup, losing a key forward right before the trade deadline on March 6 is a huge blow. Curtis Lazar will be out for at least a month, according to Kris Knoblauch.

Lazar joined the team last summer to bring high energy and a tough attitude to the lower part of the lineup, but sadly, he has struggled to stay healthy during the 2025-26 season.

How will this change the Oilers’ strategy before the trade deadline?

Now, the Edmonton management has to adjust its plans. With Lazar gone, there’s a big gap in the Oilers’ lineup, as they lose a player who was good at forechecking and was willing to take hits to make plays.

Here’s what the Oilers miss with Lazar not playing: Physicality – a tough player who can wear down the other team’s defense in tough spots. Versatility – the skill to jump into defense when the team is under pressure, and experience – a veteran who knows what it takes to make it through the tough playoffs.

With Lazar out for the next four weeks, Edmonton really needs to find a “fresh start” for their fourth line.
The timing of this injury may require the Oilers to act quickly before the deadline on Friday at 3:00 PM. It is now super important for them to find a dependable, affordable forward to help them handle the tough competition in the Pacific Division.

As the team comes together to support their teammate who is hurt, time is running out fast. The Oilers need extra players, and they need them right away.