THE Edmonton Oilers lost both a match and another superstar on Thursday, falling 4-3 in overtime against the Winnipeg jets after Connor McDavid left with an injury to the lower body.
McDavid came out following a second -time collision with the defender of Josh Morrissey jets.
The Oilers were already without scorer of the NHL Leon Draisaitl (lower body). Edmonton coach Kris Knoblauch said on Friday that the two players will be absent at least a week.
Cole Perfetti (91) by Winnipeg Jets (91) Connor McDavid (97) by Edmonton Oilers (97) during the NHL’s second period action at Edmonton on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
Canadian press / Jason Franson
The oilers also lost the goalkeeper Start Skinner at the end of the third period against the jets, but Knoblauch said he would be available on Saturday against Seattle Kraken.
The oilers fought despite the setbacks, equaling the match in the third period thanks to the goals of Jeff Skinner and Zach Hyman.
Knoblauch was impressed by the team’s response without McDavid.
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“We are very confident with the team we have,” he said. “Players who can intensify and play greater responsibilities than before this season.
“I thought there was a great effort by so many of our guys. There is no stop, and we will not need more. ”
Jeff Skinner, a former 40 -goal scorer, intensified by scoring twice in a more important role with McDavid sidelined.
“It was just a matter of time before putting the washer in the net,” said Knoblauch.
Skinner was a healthy scratch several times this season after signing as free agent in summer. The 32 -year -old man scored 13 goals in 59 games this season.
“He did it so many times and we need it,” Knoblauch said. “Especially at the moment with the injuries we have, we will need guys to intensify. And it is one of those guys that we will seek to play a big role.”
& Copy 2025 the Canadian press