Draisaitl Returns, Oilers Ready for Playoffs

0:00On April 19th, Edmonton Oiler's star, Leon Drizidal, looks prime for the playoffs after a strong practice skate. He's been out with a lower body injury since March 15th against Nashville, missing the last 14 regular season games. But now he's back on the ice, lining up on the second line in top power play, with game 1 against the Anaheim Ducks set for Monday at 10pm, Eastern at Rodgers Place. Earlier this week, Drizidal ramped up practices since April 13th, crediting the team staff for Patient Rehab. Coach Chris Noblauk says he's trending well and available sometime in Round 1, possibly right away after medical clearance tomorrow. Forward, Jason Dickinson also returned to full team skates today after his own lower body tweak. Teammates are buzzing about the boost. Captain Connor McDavid called it huge, missing those top 9 guys all season. Drizidal finished fourth in NHL scoring with 97 points in 65 games before the injury, and he's got a rep for elevating in playoffs.

1:02Looking back, Drizidal and McDavid dominated last postseason with 33 points each over 22 games. They've combined for massive playoff tallies over 4 years, even playing hurt like Drizidal's ankle sprain in 2022 or upper body issue. Last final, the Oilers, second in the Pacific, eye another deep run after two cup final losses. Expect some rest as he readjusts timing and reads, but playoffs adrenaline dulls the pain. Oilers fans, this could be the spark for another epic chase. That wraps NHL news today, brought to you with AI.