Leon Draisaitl comments on his injury ahead of Game 1 against the Anaheim Ducks
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Tyler Ball
Apr 19, 2026 (5:13 PM)
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Photo credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
This afternoon, Leon Draisaitl spoke to the media after practice and discussed his ongoing injury ahead of the Oilers playoff debut.
The Edmonton Oilers will take the ice tomorrow night against the Anaheim Ducks and heading into the game Leon Draisaitl’s status is unknown.
Draisaitl returned to full practice yesterday and then once again today was included on regular line rushes and the power play.
With this progress, it seems likely Draisaitl will play in Game 1 and now he spoke to the media to discuss the frustrations of his injury recovery.
Leon Draisaitl comments on injury status heading into the Stanley Cup Playoffs
During his press conference, Draisaitl admitted that being out injured has been a mental grind and that he’s happy to be back on the ice.
Even with the progress made, he says Monday will be the true test for his game status.
It’s a lot of lonely times when you’re hurt. Guys are on the road, and you’re kind of grinding by yourself. I’m happy where it’s at right now. We’ll see how it evolves and see how I feel (Monday). … (It) was a nice break and hopefully, sooner than later, I can be back and help the guys out.
Draisaitl then admitted that even once he returns it will likely take a couple of games for him to get back to his old self.
I know it’s going to take me a couple games to really be myself, and that’s OK, but it’s just the best time of year
Even with the positive steps in recent days, it seems Draisaitl and head coach Kris Knoblauch are still remaining cautious regarding his status for the beginning of the playoffs.
If Draisaitl returns for tomorrow’s game it will be interesting to see how much of an impact he can make while adjusting back to the speed of the game.
As more information is provided on Draisaitl’s health and return to the lineup we will pass those details along to you.
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