Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl is traveling with the team on this road trip, but will not suit up against Philadelphia.
The German winger suffered a hit from Jacob Trouba in a game against Winnipeg on Oct. 7. He would not return, and swelling him his eye kept him off the ice days after. Since then, he has been experiencing concussion-type symptoms.
Edmonton Oilers
He has been placed on the injured reserve and missed three games. However, he is showing good signs that he is in fact nearing a return; not only is he traveling, but he returned to the ice Friday for practice.
It was after Draisaitl’s skate Friday that he told the media he would not play Saturday and needed more time.
Draisaitl says tomorrow is not a possibility to return vs. #Flyers. Still experiencing symptoms. "It would not be safe," he said. #Oilers
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) October 20, 2017
In three games this season, the 21-year-old has a goal and three points. And surely, the team is missing his presence, as evident by some of their struggles on offence and their 1-3 record without him in the line-up.
With Draisaitl on the shelf, Kailer Yamamoto has taken on more offensive responsibility. He has been playing in Draisaitl’s top-line spot and is adding a lot of offence and chemistry in that role. He has three assists through six games, and his speed and vision matches that of his linemates, leading to more opportunities on offence.
It is possible that we will see Draisaitl return Tuesday, when Edmonton takes on Pittsburgh.
However, as of now, it seems wise for him to take his time. The Oilers offence is starting to step up in wake of his absence, and it is better that he makes a full recovery rather than risk an early return.
Next: Edmonton Oilers: Yamamoto Deserves Longer Stay
Along with Draisaitl, Caggiula is also traveling with the team and skating. He is also on the injured reserve with an undisclosed injury. His timetable is unknown at this time.