Leon Draisaitl, a star for the Edmonton Oilers, is anticipated to return from injury in time for the playoffs.

The Edmonton Oilers’ playoff hopes are intrinsically linked to the health and performance of their superstars. Among these, Leon Draisaitl stands out not only as one of the most elite players in the NHL but also as a player capable of changing the course of a series with a single shift. The 2025 postseason represents a critical time for the Oilers as they look to make a deep run with their dynamic duo of Connor McDavid and Draisaitl at the forefront. However, the team has been dealing with the concern of Draisaitl’s recent injury, which left a gap in the Oilers’ lineup. As the playoffs approach, all eyes are on his anticipated return and how it will impact the team’s chances of finally hoisting the Stanley Cup.

Draisaitl’s Role in the Oilers’ Success

Leon Draisaitl’s importance to the Oilers cannot be overstated. A Hart Trophy finalist in 2020 and a player who routinely finishes near the top of the league’s scoring leaderboard, Draisaitl is a key offensive catalyst for Edmonton. His combination of size, skill, and hockey IQ allows him to be a potent force both on the power play and at even strength.

In particular, Draisaitl’s ability to create plays and finish scoring chances is what sets him apart from many of his contemporaries. With a lethal wrist shot, impeccable passing vision, and the strength to protect the puck in tight spaces, he’s one of the most dangerous players in the NHL. Draisaitl’s playmaking ability complements that of Connor McDavid, creating one of the most feared duos in the league. Whether it’s generating offense through quick transitions or anchoring the power play, Draisaitl’s presence on the ice changes the dynamics for the Oilers.

Moreover, he is also reliable in the defensive zone, often tasked with taking important faceoffs and playing on the penalty kill. While McDavid is the face of the franchise, Draisaitl’s consistency and all-around game make him invaluable.

The Injury and Its Impact

Draisaitl’s recent injury, which occurred during a midseason game, caused a wave of concern throughout Oilers Nation. Early reports indicated that he was suffering from a lower-body injury, though the exact nature and severity of the injury were not immediately disclosed. While his absence was a blow to the team’s offensive power, the Oilers attempted to adjust by relying on other key players to fill the gap.

Without Draisaitl in the lineup, the Oilers faced challenges, particularly in terms of offensive depth. While McDavid remained his dominant self, the Oilers’ reliance on their top two players exposed weaknesses in the middle six, forcing players like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Evander Kane, and Zach Hyman to step up in greater roles. The team’s power play, which has been one of their primary weapons, also saw a slight dip without Draisaitl’s net-front presence and his ability to distribute the puck with precision.

Despite these challenges, the Oilers managed to keep their playoff position intact, thanks in large part to stellar performances from McDavid and goaltender Stuart Skinner. However, the absence of Draisaitl in the lineup served as a reminder of how vital he is to the team’s success.

The Importance of His Return for the Playoffs

As the Oilers gear up for the postseason, the return of Draisaitl could not come at a better time. With the playoffs on the horizon, his presence on the ice will be a game-changer for Edmonton. Historically, Draisaitl has been a strong playoff performer, showcasing his elite ability to step up when it matters most. In 2022, he finished the postseason with 17 points in 16 games, proving that he can elevate his game in high-pressure situations.

For the Oilers, Draisaitl’s return means the reinstatement of the team’s offensive firepower. His chemistry with McDavid is undeniable, and when the two are on the ice together, the Oilers’ offense becomes a juggernaut. The return of Draisaitl will also allow head coach Jay Woodcroft to return to his preferred line combinations, giving the Oilers the flexibility to roll out their top-six forwards and create matchup nightmares for opposing teams.

Perhaps most importantly, Draisaitl’s return will bolster the power play. The Oilers’ man-advantage unit is one of the most potent in the league, and Draisaitl is a key reason for that. His ability to control the puck and dish out pinpoint passes allows McDavid and the other forwards to capitalize on scoring opportunities. With both of these players back in action together, the Oilers’ power play could be even more dangerous as the playoffs begin.

Challenges and Risk Factors

While the return of Draisaitl is certainly a positive for the Oilers, there are still potential risks to consider. Coming back from injury, particularly at the tail end of the regular season, means that Draisaitl might not immediately be at his peak form. The Oilers will have to be mindful of his recovery process, ensuring that he doesn’t push himself too hard too soon, risking reinjury.

Additionally, after being sidelined for several games, Draisaitl might experience some rust as he attempts to get back into his usual rhythm. The Oilers will likely give him a few games to shake off any lingering effects from the injury before pushing him too hard in high-stakes playoff matchups.

Team Dynamics and Other Playoff Contenders

The Oilers, with Draisaitl and McDavid fully healthy, are among the top contenders in the Western Conference. However, they face stiff competition from teams like the Colorado Avalanche, Vegas Golden Knights, and Dallas Stars, each with their own strengths and star power. For the Oilers to make a deep run, they’ll need to be at their best in all areas of the game, including defense, goaltending, and special teams.

The return of Draisaitl provides the Oilers with the added depth they need to compete with these high-level teams. It allows them to deploy more balanced lineups, which will be crucial in playoff matchups where every line matters. Draisaitl’s versatility also means that he can contribute in a variety of situations, whether it’s creating offense on the power play or contributing to five-on-five play.

Draisaitl’s Future with the Oilers

Looking beyond this season, Leon Draisaitl remains one of the cornerstones of the Oilers’ franchise. His talent and leadership will continue to play a central role in Edmonton’s future playoff aspirations. With McDavid and Draisaitl leading the charge, the Oilers have the potential to contend for Stanley Cups in the coming years, provided they continue to build around their dynamic duo.

As the playoffs approach, the question remains: Will this be the year the Oilers finally break through? With Draisaitl back in the lineup, they are undoubtedly a more dangerous team, and the hope is that his return will help propel them to a deep playoff run.

Leon Draisaitl’s return from injury is a significant moment for the Edmonton Oilers, especially with the playoffs fast approaching. His presence elevates the team’s chances of success, providing a much-needed boost to both their offense and power play. While the Oilers have managed to stay afloat without him, Draisaitl’s return could be the key to unlocking their full potential. With the dynamic duo of Draisaitl and McDavid back together, the Oilers are primed to make a serious push for the Stanley Cup, and Draisaitl’s performance will likely determine how far they can go.