2024-25 NHL Injury Report: McDavid, Draisaitl Among Injured as Playoffs Near

As the Stanley Cup Playoffs draw closer, the Edmonton Oilers, a team considered a top contender for the championship, are facing concerns as their star players, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, are currently injured. Both McDavid and Draisaitl are anticipated to be out for at least the next few games.

While April 1st is the earliest possible return date for McDavid and Draisaitl, the Oilers have not confirmed a specific date for their return. Draisaitl is currently the league leader with 49 goals and ranks second in the NHL with 101 points. McDavid is also among the league`s top players, holding third place in assists with 64 and fourth in points with 90.

The Oilers are currently competing for a better playoff position within the Pacific Division against the Vegas Golden Knights and the Los Angeles Kings. The absence of McDavid and Draisaitl significantly weakens their lineup, potentially impacting their chances of securing home-ice advantage in the first round of the playoffs and beyond.

The Florida Panthers, the other finalist from last year`s Stanley Cup, are also dealing with a major injury. Star forward Matthew Tkachuk suffered a groin injury during the 4 Nations Face-Off. The Panthers have announced that Tkachuk has been placed on Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR) and is expected to remain sidelined until the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

`Matthew will be out for a significant duration. We are hopeful for his return by the playoffs,` stated Panthers General Manager Bill Zito on March 3rd.

Below is an overview of prominent NHL players who are currently out of action due to injuries: