Connor McDavid left practice early on Monday, and now Kris Knoblauch has a lot to worry about as Edmonton faces a crucial part of their season.
That’s the current situation in Edmonton. Ryan Rishaug shared that McDavid left the practice session halfway through and went to see the trainers, even though there wasn’t any clear sign of an injury.
For most teams, this news would be a huge deal. For the Oilers, it feels like a serious blow because their chances for the playoffs rely heavily on No. 97.
McDavid has played 70 games and scored 115 points, with 37 goals and 78 assists. These aren’t just amazing stats; he’s the one who sets the pace of the game, leads the plays, helps on the power play, and lifts the spirits of the team on the bench.
McDavid left practice part way through and is in with trainers. Didn’t look like he was injured but we’ll follow up with Knoblauch after skate.
— Ryan Rishaug (@TSNRyanRishaug) March 23, 2026
Edmonton also isn’t in a position where they can overlook this situation and carry on. The Oilers entered this phase with a record of 34-26-9, and every single point is important as the competition in the Western Conference tightens up in late March.
That’s why this feels more serious than an ordinary practice incident. When your team captain leaves the ice to see the trainers, everything changes until the coach gives an update.
The Oilers can’t pretend everything is fine
Knoblauch has choices for rearranging the lines. He could rely more on Leon Draisaitl, mix up the top six players, and ask Evan Bouchard to do even more from the defense. But none of this can truly replace McDavid.
Not at this time of year. Not when Edmonton is trying to stay strong and prepare for the playoffs instead of just sliding in.
Recent results already show how narrow the gap is. Edmonton lost 4-0 to Florida on March 19 and is facing another tough challenge against Tampa Bay with a record of 34-26-9.
This is why this news is such a big deal. The Oilers still have a good enough team to do well for a game or two, but the team that can really make an impact in the playoffs needs McDavid to be the key player.
Without McDavid, their fast-paced game is different. Their power play doesn’t work the same way. The way they put pressure on the other team goes away.
So, this is definitely something to worry about. Until Knoblauch shares clear information, it seems like Edmonton’s chance to go to the playoffs is a lot less sure than it was a few hours ago.
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