Edmonton Oilers Injury Report: Leon Draisaitl Status Unknown Heading Into Game 7

The Edmonton Oilers hold a dynamic one-two punch in Hart trophy finalist Connor McDavid and elite playmaker Leon Draisaitl but may be lacking the latter as they head to Edmonton for a crucial Game 7 against the Los Angeles Kings. The German international was tagged with a “slew foot” in a scrum during Game 6 and was seen flexing his knee multiple times after the initial takedown.

Video of play where injury initially happen shown below:

The tough as nails forward left the bench to head to the locker room multiple times in the first period but did return to play 18 total minutes including setting up the game winning goal. Although seen stretching the knee, we believe Draisaitl is dealing with an ankle injury after being brought down by a hockey play that is similar to a horse collar tackle in football that can result in serious damage to the athlete.

It is great news for the Oilers that Draisaitl finished the contest but the star could be dealing with swelling in his ankle after the game meaning it will be important to keep tabs on the morning skate in Edmonton. Draisaitl will surely be missed if he indeed can’t go as his 55 goals ranked second in the NHL while his 110 total points ranked 4th in the league.

Due to the nature of the series, the forward will likely push to suit up as this is a win or go home matchup but may not be 100% leaving minutes open to others as Draisaitl is used in all situations. McDavid will likely be leaned on more than usual Game 7, just as he was last game with Draisaitl nursing the ankle early on. The superstar has notched multiple point efforts in all but one game this series and with the added minutes, expect an even bigger stat line.

Current FanDuel Sportsbook lines suggest the Oiler forward will give it a go but check back for more details at sicscore.com as his game status evolves closer to the drop of the puck.