The Edmonton Oilers received big news on Sunday morning that could be possible. Senior defender Mattias Ekholm joins the team’s optional skateboarding and looks pretty good. His way of circumventing the ice shows that he has made significant progress in his recovery before the Western Conference final against the Dallas Stars. Reports say he can join the Oilers in Game 3 or 4, but speculate that he can prepare soon.
Ekholm, who has been recently fixed to daily routines after being injured after the end of the season, looks like he may be questioned for the rest of the year. But as the Oilers have surpassed the Los Angeles Kings and Vegas Golden Knights, time has passed and Ekholm has a chance to heal. He was on the ice on Sunday and looked sharp when he participated in several drills.
TSN’s Ryan Rishaug posted a video Shows Ekholm skating and looking relatively healthy. Although head coach Kris Knoblauch pointed out that Ekholm is still unlikely to be in Game 1 and Game 2 in Dallas, he did not close the door on him and would likely join the team. “We haven’t decided whether he’s traveling with us yet,” Nobrach said. “It’s a day, but whether he’s joined us sometime in the series and we’re lucky to have him.”
Will Ekholm bring surprises on the way?
The early idea was that Ekholm probably wouldn’t be with the Oilers to Dallas. Now, it sounds like this may be something both sides are considering. Knoblauch hinted that the team thought there might be some players and when they would be available, but also talked about not wanting to rush into the players. This is the result of the Oilers early in the series could affect how they treat Ekholm’s injuries.
Ekholm can choose skateboards when going out. There is no decision on whether he will play in Games 1 and 2. pic.twitter.com/dkipofw6h7
– Ryan Rishaug (@tsnryanrishaug) May 18, 2025
Ekholm’s presence, even with limited abilities or influence on the ice, provides confidence for the Oilers who performed well in his absence. Edmonton’s Defense Forces have strengthened their own damage, but letting Ekholm return (even the Central Series) will further consolidate the blue line. This will take the Oilers lift seriously if he is ready to compete in Game 1 or 2 (the series will begin Wednesday, May 21).
Even if he is unavailable early in the series, Game 3 could mark his return if Ekholm continues to move in the right direction.
If goalkeeper Calvin Pickard is available, the Oilers may be looking for their first fully healthy playoff lineup. Then the depth Edmonton will have will be a real advantage, and if needed, Knoblauch may have a serious weapon in his back pocket.
At present, Ekholm’s identity is still uncertain. Still, he’s approaching his teammates, which should make the stars think they’ll be full.
Source link
