The Edmonton Oilers know what is expected of them as they enter the 2025-26 NHL season. As they host the Calgary Flames in a new edition of the Battle of Alberta, fans across the league wonder why Zach Hyman isnât on the ice with the rest of his teammates.
The Oilers are going after the Stanley Cup after consecutive defeats in the Final. Determined to hoist Edmontonâs first Cup since 1990, the Oilers know the work is cut out for them during the 2025-26 NHL season.
After Connor McDavid re-signed, the organization tied another star to an extension. Now, there are no excuses in the Gateway to the North. Barring more injury setbacks, Edmonton must walk their talk after a long summer of promises to the fanbase in Northern Alberta. Without Hyman to start the season, it will take more out of everybody to reach the promised land.
Why isnât Hyman playing?
Hyman has been out of the Oilersâ lineup since the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The veteran forward dislocated his wrist during Edmontonâs matchup with the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference Final. Hyman underwent surgery on his right wrist in May and has been recovering ever since.
Zach Hyman arrives for a game
As the Oilers face-off against the eternal enemies, Flames, at Rogers Place, the 33-year-old winger will not step onto the ice. When the puck drops in Edmonton, Hyman will miss his 16th game in a row (counting the 2024-25 postseason and 2025-26 preseason).
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When is Hyman expected to return?
While assuring Hyman is fully healthy and avoiding rushing his recovery is paramount, itâs no secret the Oilers hope to have him back on the lineup as soon as possible. On that note, Edmonton may not have to wait for too long.
âHyman wonât be available during the first month of the 2025-26 season,â as reported by CBS Sports. âHeâs expected to join the team in early November.â The Oilers have placed Hyman on long-term injured reserve (LTIR).
Time to shine
As is often the case in the NHL, key players being out due to injuries means big opportunities for others to step into the spotlight. On that note, Trent Frederic might have the perfect chance to prove his worthâand heâs being given quite the platform to do so.
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With Hyman out, Frederic is sliding onto the first line, joining the best duo in the NHL: Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid. Alongside them, the 27-year-old forward could put doubts to rest regarding his eight-year, $30.8 million contract.
