Although it was bad news that the Edmonton Oilers lost game one to Vancouver Canucks there could be much worse news coming out of this game than just the loss. Halfway through this game, it appeared that Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl may have been injured. He missed the latter half of the second period and looked to be fighting something during the 3rd period.
When it comes to this playoff series I don't think there were many people who picked the Oilers to sweep 4 straight against the Vancouver Canucks. In order to win in 5 or 6 games the Oilers will need to lose at least one game, hopefully, the Oilers can turn this series around. One thing that will hurt the Oilers chances is if Draisaitl is hurt.
Leon Draisaitl has left the Oilers bench and has yet to return. pic.twitter.com/veQ1suliid
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) May 9, 2024
If we go back a couple of years ago, Draisaitl was playing on a sprained ankle and while he still was able to contribute he was not 100% and that changes the look of this team. If Draisaitl isn't playing 100% he can not drive his own line and the Oilers may be forced to change the lines. This would affect every line for the Oilers.
If Draisaitl needs to play on a line where he isn't the main driver they move him on the McDavid's wing, just like they did when he had his sprained ankle. I would get the first line would then consist of McDavid- Draisaitl- Hyman which would make the second line a lot weaker. My best guess would be Kane- Nuge- Holloway. I know it will be Kane and Nugent-Hopkins, but I am guessing they might give Holloway a look in that spot.
I highly doubt that we will hear anything about what is actually going on with Draisaitl, but from the looks of the broadcast, it was some sort of issue with his lower back. From an Edmonton Oilers point of view, I really hope that this injury is something minor because if the Oilers want to hoist the Cup Draisaitl is going to be a major part of that.