<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid">Connor McDavid</a> and the Edmonton Oilers may now find out what they are really about in the 2025-26 NHL season. Leon Draisaitl has been placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) and is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season. The positive note is that the German star should be fully healthy for the Stanley Cup Playoffs—but Edmonton must first make it.



“Obviously, disappointing. Losing a guy like [Leon Draisaitl] sucks, it makes it tough. But we saw different guys step up, that’s what it’s about. We’re in the thick of a playoff race, it’s going to take everyone to get us in,” McDavid commented on Draisaitl’s injury, via @EdmontonOilers on X. “It takes all of us to be a bit more dangerous, shoot the puck a little bit more. Find different ways to score more goals.”



Draisaitl is out with a lower-body injury sustained on March 15, when <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton</a> hosted Nashville at Rogers Place. Initially thought to be a minor issue, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/leon-draisaitls-injury-update-proves-kris-knoblauch-wrong-with-oilers-star-out-for-the-season">Oilers’ latest injury update on Draisaitl proved Kris Knoblauch wrong</a>, as the head coach suggested a short-term absence for McDavid’s sidekick. 



<h2>How many games will Draisaitl miss?</h2>



Leon Draisaitl is trending to miss 14 games to close out the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> regular season. Whether he will be back for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs’ first round—if the Edmonton Oilers even make the postseason without him—is a different story.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/17144622/leon-draisaitl-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Leon Draisaitl" class="wp-image-599833"><figcaption>Leon Draisaitl will miss the remainder of the regular season</figcaption></figure>



Regardless, anything can happen. Because he’s been placed on LTIR, Draisaitl must miss at least 10 games and 24 days of the 2025–26 NHL regular season. Thus, he could make his return on April 8, when the Oilers take on the San Jose Sharks on the road.


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If Connor McDavid and the rest of the Oilers can keep the team afloat during Draisaitl’s absence, then Edmonton may have clinched a playoff spot by then, allowing Draisaitl to be rested until the postseason. If not, however, he may be rushed back onto the ice in a desperate attempt to salvage the season in the Gateway to the North.


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Connor McDavid wishes Oilers feed off Leon Draisaitl’s injury to be better

Connor McDavid wishes Oilers feed off Leon Draisaitl's injury to be better - Bolavip US

McDavid wishes Oilers feed off Draisaitl's injury

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton Oilers</a> are facing growing concern around star forward Leon Draisaitl after his recent lower-body injury, but general manager Stan Bowman has now offered a more measured outlook on his recovery. While initial reports suggested a lengthy absence, the latest update provides a degree of optimism for Edmonton.



“You have to see how his recovery goes, but if everything goes as scheduled, and we’ll have a better feel for that as we get closer to the end, the expectation is it’ll just be until the end of the regular season,” Bowman said, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, clarifying that surgery will not be required.



The injury occurred following a hit that sent Draisaitl into the boards, and although early fears pointed toward a worst-case scenario, the organization now believes the timeline may not extend deep into the postseason. That shift could prove critical as the Oilers prepare for a playoff push.



<h2>Oilers remain hopeful for regular-season return</h2>



Despite concerns that Draisaitl could miss the remainder of the regular season, Bowman did not rule out a late return if recovery progresses well. The team is expected to monitor his condition closely, with a clearer timeline likely to emerge as the regular season nears its conclusion.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/18133844/Leon-Draisaitl-oilers-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-600500"><figcaption>&nbsp;Leon Draisaitl #29 of the Oilers skates against Tim Stutzle #18 of the Senators. Codie McLachlan/Getty Images </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Edmonton confident in star’s playoff impact</h2>


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Bowman emphasized that Draisaitl’s absence might ultimately benefit the team heading into the postseason. “He’ll be rested, and he’ll be fresh for the playoffs… he’s always unbelievable in the playoffs,” he said, describing the situation as a possible “blessing in disguise.”


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As one half of Edmonton’s elite duo alongside <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid">Connor McDavid</a>, Draisaitl remains a cornerstone of the franchise. With 97 points, he sits among the league’s top scorers, reinforcing just how significant his presence will be once he returns to the lineup.

Oilers GM Stan Bowman provides key update on Leon Draisaitl’s injury status

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Oilers GM Stan Bowman provides key update on Leon Draisaitl's injury status - Bolavip US

Bowman updates Leon Draisaitl’s injury status

As confirmed by the <a href="https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/release-oilers-statement-on-leon-draisaitl-x8907">Edmonton Oilers through an official statement</a>, Leon Draisaitl is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season. The German star sustained a lower-body injury against the Nashville Predators on March 15. Although Kris Knoblauch expected Draisaitl’s setback to be short-term, the latest injury update has proved the head coach wrong in the 2025-26 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> season.



In the blink of an eye, the tide has changed for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Oilers</a>. In the NHL, much can happen in such a short time, and Edmonton is the latest franchise to learn that lesson. On Monday, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/oilers-hc-kris-knoblauch-provides-encouraging-injury-update-on-leon-draisaitl">Knoblauch provided an encouraging injury update on Draisaitl</a>. “It shouldn’t be a really long injury,” Knoblauch said. Less than 24 hours later, he stands corrected.



Regardless, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kris-knoblauch">Knoblauch</a> can’t dwell on the fact that he mistakenly assumed Draisaitl’s absence would be brief. More importantly, the head coach in the “Gateway to the North” must find a way to keep the Oilers afloat. Edmonton is hanging on to a playoff spot by the skin of its teeth. Without its second-best player—and Connor McDavid’s sidekick—the climb becomes much steeper.



<h2>How many games will Draisaitl miss?</h2>



Draisaitl will be sidelined for the last 14 games of the 2025-26 NHL regular season. Moreover, 8 of those 14 outings will come against Pacific Division teams. That means over half of the remaining games will be divisional showdowns for the Edmonton Oilers. Having a star player miss time is never ideal, but when it happens in the home stretch of the campaign, the impact is even greater.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/16094358/leon-draisaitl-1920x1080.webp" alt="Leon Draisaitl" class="wp-image-598981"><figcaption>Leon Draisaitl at Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Oilers could be in trouble without Draisaitl</h2>


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If there’s a silver lining for Knoblauch and the Oilers, it may lie in the fact that they will face the seventh-easiest remaining schedule in terms of strength of schedule, per Tankathon. 



On the other hand, concerns may grow, as all six clubs with an easier schedule are in the race for the Stanley Cup Playoffs in the West. Moreover, four of them are divisional rivals of Edmonton: the Los Angeles Kings (easiest remaining schedule), Anaheim Ducks (second-easiest), San Jose Sharks (fourth), and Vegas Golden Knights (sixth).

Leon Draisaitl’s injury update proves Kris Knoblauch wrong with Oilers star out for the season

Leon Draisaitl's injury update proves Kris Knoblauch wrong with Oilers star out for the season - Bolavip US

Draisaitl's injury update proves Knoblauch wrong

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton Oilers</a> are struggling to build momentum in the 2025-26 NHL season. Watching Leon Draisaitl leave a game with an injury is far from what the team needs right now. However, head coach Kris Knoblauch made sure to keep the vibes positive with his injury update.



“He went out and he just didn’t feel quite right. The fact that the medical staff said it doesn’t seem too bad and there’s no immediate red flags, it tells me that it shouldn’t be a really long injury,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kris-knoblauch">Knoblauch</a> commented on Draisaitl’s injury, per <a href="https://www.nhl.com/">NHL.com</a>.



Prior to his injury, Draisaitl had broken the tie with a power play goal less than four minutes into the game. Shortly after, he was hit against the boards by Predators’ Ozzy Wiesblatt. Draisaitl tried to shake it off and push through, but he couldn’t and was ruled out of the game before the start of the second period.



<h2>Draisaitl’s numbers in 2025-26 NHL season</h2>



So far, Draisaitl had appeared in 65 of the Oilers’ 68 games played in the 2025-26 campaign. The German star had taken a personal leave of absence in January, which caused him to miss three outings. Now, he could be set to miss crucial battles for Edmonton because of injury.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Leon Draisaitl appeared to be injured after taking a hard hit early in the first period from Ozzy Wiesblatt. Draisaitl was not on the bench to start the second, and didn’t play the rest of the game. Kris Knoblauch had no update on his status after the game. <a href="https://t.co/PaLTn6wKxa">pic.twitter.com/PaLTn6wKxa</a>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2033385968300871957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote></div>



Through 65 games, Draisaitl has been on a tear this season. He has found the back of the net 35 times (tied for 8th in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a>), assisted a teammate 62 times (4th in the league), and amassed a total of 97 points (4th in the NHL). 


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However, after the latest setback, his chase for the 100-point mark will be put on hold. Draisaitl has scored over 100 points in six of the last seven seasons. The last time he failed to reach that mark was during the shortened 2020–21 campaign. 



<h2>Silver lining for the Oilers and Draisaitl</h2>



Barring an unexpectedly long-term absence, Draisaitl should be back on the ice to help the Oilers soon, and it won’t take long for him to net the three points that separate him from another 100-point campaign. Knoblauch and company know the Oilers must step on the gas during Draisaitl’s absence, but there’s also no reason to panic—at least not yet.

Oilers HC Kris Knoblauch provides encouraging injury update on Leon Draisaitl

Oilers HC Kris Knoblauch provides encouraging injury update on Leon Draisaitl - Bolavip US

Oilers' Knoblauch provides encouraging injury update on Draisaitl

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton Oilers</a> made several roster moves ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline, but new reports suggest the team also considered a much bigger change involving one of its longtime defensemen.



Reports that the Oilers explored a potential Darnell Nurse trade before the deadline highlight how the organization is already weighing significant roster decisions, even as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/connor-mcdavids-oilers-future-could-reportedly-be-affected-by-a-first-round-playoff-exit">Connor McDavid’s future in Edmonton could reportedly be affected by a first‑round playoff exit</a>.



Since becoming a full-time player in the 2015–16 season, Nurse has appeared in more than 780 games with the Oilers, recording 88 goals and 233 assists. He is also one of the longest-tenured players on the roster, behind Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Leon Draisaitl.



“Don’t shoot the messenger, but the Edmonton Oilers discussed the possibility of moving Darnell Nurse,” David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period reported.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/12083650/Darnell-Nurse-oilers-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-596670"><figcaption>Darnell Nurse #25 of the Edmonton Oilers defends in the second period vs Golden Knights. Ethan Miller/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Nurse remains key piece of Oilers’ defense</h2>



Pagnotta also noted that it is unclear how serious the discussions became, but the situation could be worth monitoring as the offseason approaches. “I can’t pinpoint how deep trade talks actually went, but that’s a name to watch this summer, NMC and all,” Pagnotta added.


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<h2>Contract could complicate any potential move</h2>



Nurse is currently in the fourth year of an eight-year contract extension he signed with Edmonton in 2021. The deal includes a no-movement clause, meaning he would need to approve any potential trade.


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For now, Nurse remains part of an Oilers team that continues to battle in the Pacific Division as the season progresses. However, the report suggests his situation could become a storyline to watch once the offseason begins.

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Oilers reportedly considered moving veteran defenseman Darnell Nurse before NHL trade deadline - Bolavip US

Oilers reportedly considered moving veteran defenseman Darnell Nurse

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton Oilers</a> are facing a difficult stretch in the 2025–26 season, and questions about Connor McDavid’s long-term future with the franchise are beginning to surface. After reaching the Stanley Cup Final in back-to-back seasons, Edmonton is now fighting simply to secure a playoff spot.



With a record of 31–25–8, the Oilers are only a few points away from falling out of a postseason position with less than 20 games remaining. A strong run could still push them back into contention in the Pacific Division, but recent results have raised concerns.



According to Pierre LeBrun, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid">McDavid</a> could soon face an important decision about his future if the team fails to make another deep playoff run. “At a minimum, the feeling is McDavid will give the Oilers one more season next year in this contention window,” LeBrun wrote in his latest column for The Athletic.



<h2>First-round exit could raise bigger questions</h2>



LeBrun also suggested that a disappointing playoff result this season could influence how McDavid views the team’s chances of winning a championship. “If the Oilers flame out in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs this spring, I can’t discount how No. 97 will feel about that, about the team’s ability to win, and about his place in it,” LeBrun wrote.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/11144350/Connor-mcdavid-oilers-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-596159"><figcaption>Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers skates with the puck. Ethan Miller/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



The report indicates that the most likely scenario is that McDavid waits until the summer of 2027 to reassess his future, though the outcome of the current season could still shape his thinking moving forward.


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McDavid signed a team-friendly extension that keeps him under contract for two more seasons, and how the Oilers perform during that window could ultimately determine whether the superstar center remains in Edmonton for the long term or considers a move elsewhere.


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Connor McDavid’s Oilers future could reportedly be affected by a first-round playoff exit

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Connor McDavid's Oilers future could reportedly be affected by a first-round playoff exit - Bolavip US

Although <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nathan-mackinnon">Nathan MacKinnon</a> made contact with Edmonton Oilers goaltender Connor Ingram, Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar made it clear it was Darnell Nurse who was behind the concussion sustained by the goaltender in the 2025-26 NHL season.



“I really don’t give a cr– if their goalie’s hurt. That’s on their defenseman [Darnell Nurse], not on our guy,” Bednar stated after the game, via @GinoHard_ on X. “If you put guys into your own goalie, that’s not a penalty.”



Bednar’s blunt response is nothing new for fans around the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> who have grown used to his postgame media availabilities. However, his latest message on MacKinnon and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Oilers</a> is one particularly noisy and disruptive. As expected, it didn’t take long for users on social media to react.



<h2>Fans’ reaction to the play and Bednar’s statement</h2>



As many fans noted, Bednar’s message may have consequences for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/colorado-avalanche">Avalanche</a> going forward. “So what he is saying is that it’s open season on his goalie as long as you run into a defenseman first. Ok then,” an user on X said. “He’s not wrong on the Nurse front. It is pretty classless to say that about Ingram,” another fan commented.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">He’s not wrong. There’s proof of the physics. There’s no way Mackinnon’s trajectory changes if Nurse doesn’t hit him. And Nurses hit wasn’t even intentional. Both guys going for the puck and one knocks the other into the goalie. Just a hockey play and nothing else. <a href="https://t.co/iGQUIpP1wT">pic.twitter.com/iGQUIpP1wT</a>— Spencer (@Spence0202) <a href="https://twitter.com/Spence0202/status/2031742781387833825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2026</a></blockquote></div>



It may be a bit of a stretch, but the door could now be open for retaliation. Colorado will visit Edmonton on April 13. It may look like a long way down the road, but that doesn’t change the fact the Oilers may seek some form of revenge. In the NHL, teams don’t forget, and Ingram going down with a concussion won’t sit right with Edmonton for a while.


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<h2>MacKinnon was handed a game misconduct</h2>



While Bednar pleads MacKinnon’s case after the 4-3 loss to the Oilers, there wasn’t much he could do to let him off the officiating’s hook. MacKinnon was assessed a five-minute major for goaltender interference and a game misconduct.



With MacKinnon out of the game for the entire third period, the Avs conceded the decisive goal as Connor McDavid cashed in on a power play at 9:03 of the final frame. Thanks to their captain, the Oilers escaped Mile High City with a statement win.


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Avalanche HC Jared Bednar blames Oilers, not Nathan MacKinnon, for Connor Ingram's injury - Bolavip US

Avalanche's Bednar blames Oilers, not MacKinnon, for Ingram's injury

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton Oilers</a> are emerging as a potential rival to the Montreal Canadiens in the race to acquire Sergei Bobrovsky. As the trade market for a goalie begins to take shape, multiple teams appear to be monitoring the veteran’s situation closely.



NHL insider Kevin Weekes added fuel to the speculation when discussing Edmonton’s involvement to negotiate with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/florida-panthers">Florida Panthers</a> and the player. “I’m told the Oilers and Bobrovsky’s camp have had some conversations.”



For Edmonton, exploring the market makes sense given their ongoing search for stability in net. Adding a veteran goaltender with Bobrovsky’s résumé would give the Oilers another experienced option and potentially strengthen their roster as they look to remain competitive in a difficult Western Conference. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid">Connor McDavid</a> needs help.



<h2>Oilers could comlplicate Canadiens trade for Sergei Bobrovsky</h2>



The Montreal Canadiens have been widely viewed as one of the more logical landing spots if Bobrovsky becomes available. However, the Oilers entering the picture could significantly complicate that scenario.


 

 


If the Oilers decide to pursue Bobrovsky more aggressively, they could create a bidding situation that raises the cost for any interested team, including Montreal. At the moment, it’s expected a high price set by the Florida Panthers.



With the trade market still developing, the situation remains fluid. What is clear, though, is that the Oilers and Canadiens may now find themselves competing for the same goalie if Bobrovsky ultimately becomes available. There’s not a lot of time left.


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Canadiens and Oilers could reportedly trade with Panthers for Sergei Bobrovsky

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Canadiens reportedly receive Sergei Bobrovsky trade update from Panthers

Canadiens and Oilers could reportedly trade with Panthers for Sergei Bobrovsky - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton Oilers</a> are actively exploring options to add depth at center as the NHL trade deadline looms Friday at 3 p.m. EST. While Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl form a formidable duo, general manager Ken Holland is looking to bolster the supporting cast for a deep playoff push.



With the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a> struggling this season and currently nine points outside a playoff spot, it’s likely Toronto will be sellers at the deadline. One player generating significant interest is versatile forward Nicolas Roy, who has caught the attention of Edmonton and potentially other contenders.



According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, the Oilers have been evaluating multiple Leafs forwards, including Roy. “About a month ago, I mentioned that Roy and OEL (Oliver Ekman-Larsson) are guys that the Oilers are looking at or fit what they’re looking at specifically,” Pagnotta said. “Lo and behold, those are the guys they’ve been looking at.”



<h2>Cap space and roster flexibility are key</h2>



Edmonton recently acquired defenseman Connor Murphy from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-blackhawks">Chicago Blackhawks</a>&nbsp;in exchange for a second-round pick, which addressed their immediate defensive need. That move also opened some cap room to explore forward options. Pagnotta noted that Andrew Mangiapane being placed on waivers freed up roughly $1.5 million, giving the Oilers more flexibility for additional deals.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/05103230/Nicolas-Roy-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-591803"><figcaption>Nicolas Roy #55 of the Maple Leafs skates against the Capitals. Jamie Sabau/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Janmark’s long-term injured reserve status also adds roughly $2 million in cap space, putting Edmonton in a better position to manage salary retention if a trade with Toronto moves forward. 


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“If you’re Edmonton, and you’re right up against the cap, it’s a lot easier to free up another $600-700K to bring on someone like Scott Laughton at $775K if the Leafs eat half of his $1.5 million,” Pagnotta explained.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="69a9af27a1c616357c3f8e00" data-title="Should the Oilers trade for a Maple Leafs forward before the NHL trade deadline?" data-options="3"></div>

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Oilers reportedly showing interest in Maple Leafs forward ahead of NHL trade deadline - Bolavip US

It didn’t take long before <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid">Connor McDavid</a> reacted to the latest acquisition made by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2025-26 NHL season. With the trade deadline rising on the horizon, the Oilers’ captain made something clear to the front office about bolstering the lineup.



McDavid and company are welcoming Connor Murphy to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton</a>. The move was confirmed after reports indicated the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/connor-mcdavid-and-oilers-reportedly-going-after-veteran-teammate-of-connor-bedard-on-blackhawks">Oilers were going after the veteran teammate of Connor Bedard on the Chicago Blackhawks</a>. The feeling around the organization is that there are more moves from where that one came.



Thus, as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/connor-mcdavids-oilers-receive-strong-warning-from-stan-bowman-before-trade-deadline">McDavid and the Oilers received a strong warning from Stan Bowman before the trade deadline</a>, the captain had some words of his own for the front office. The message in The Gateway to the North is clear: make adjustments if needed, but don’t fix what isn’t broken.



“Finding a way to add without having to subtract is always a great thing,” McDavid reminded the front office before the trade deadline and heading to the Stanley Cup Playoffs, via @EdmontonOilers on X. “Given our stage and where we’re at, draft picks aren’t as valuable to us. I’m excited about the move.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1103" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/03145807/connor-mcdavid-8-1920x1103.webp" alt="Connor McDavid shaking hands" class="wp-image-590480"><figcaption>Connor McDavid after the 2024 Stanley Cup Final</figcaption></figure>



<h2>McDavid’s Oilers make key trade</h2>



As McDavid admitted, draft picks hold little value for the Oilers right now; Edmonton is in a “win-now” scenario. That was the primary driver behind McDavid signing his two-year, $25 million contract extension—a deal that begins next season and keeps him in Northern Alberta through 2028. He has no interest in waiting for draft prospects to blossom into <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a>-caliber players.


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The Oilers’ decision to part with a 2028 second-round pick for a proven defense-first blueliner like Connor Murphy adds size and veteran experience at exactly the right time. While hindsight is 20-20, on paper, this is a significant move for Stan Bowman and the front office. However, just because Edmonton made a sound business decision doesn’t necessarily mean Chicago got the short end of the stick.



With Murphy’s deal set to expire after this season, his impact will be measured in the short term. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are playing the long game; they won’t even use that pick until 2028, and fans in the Windy City may not see that player in the NHL until 2030. The deal may have all the ingredients of a classic win-win: Chicago continues its patient rebuild, while Edmonton goes all-in. To declare a winner this early would be a mistake.

Connor McDavid sends clear message to Oilers about trading teammates before NHL trade deadline

Connor McDavid sends clear message to Oilers about trading teammates before NHL trade deadline - Bolavip US

Connor McDavid sends clear message to Oilers about trading teammates

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton Oilers</a> have had a highly inconsistent NHL season so far, posting a 29-24-8 record. With the trade deadline approaching, they have an opportunity to adjust their lines, and Stan Bowman delivered a clear message regarding the Oilers’ performance, closely tied to Connor McDavid’s leadership.



In a press conference, Bowman outlined the team’s shortcomings, pointing directly to the defensive zone. “We haven’t played well defensively as a team. There are many contributing factors that include forwards, defence and goaltending. Until we learn as a team to be smarter in how we approach the game there will be highs and lows. I think that is a mentality shift. We have seen it in spurts, but not consistently enough.



“There has to be a bigger commitment from all our players to make smarter plays and not try to score every shift. There are lots of details underneath that. We have some players at forward, defence and goalie who need to play better.”



Thursday night served as a reminder of how dangerous the Edmonton Oilers can be at their best. In a crucial <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> divisional matchup against the LA Kings, the Oilers looked like an elite team, earning a dominant 8-1 victory.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="589894" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/02153726/connor-mcdavid-6-1920x1080.webp" alt="Connor McDavid prior to a game" class="wp-image-589894"><figcaption>Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers walking down the tunnel</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>The ups and downs of the Oilers</h2>



What makes performances like that confusing, and perhaps frustrating, is that just two nights earlier, they lost 6-5 to the Anaheim Ducks. On Saturday afternoon, they allowed five goals again in a 5-4 loss to the young San Jose Sharks.


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Although the Oilers sit third in the Pacific Division, that position reflects the overall struggles within the division. Through 61 games, they hold a 29-24-8 record, which underscores that this group has not consistently looked like the contender their fan base expects.



<h2>McDavid’s strong production</h2>



Oilers center <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid">Connor McDavid</a> recorded three more assists in Saturday afternoon’s game against the San Jose Sharks, but it was not enough in the 5-4 defeat. McDavid now has 103 points in 61 games, the most in the NHL, and he is on pace to reach 130 points for the third time in four years. His next game is scheduled for Tuesday night at home against the Ottawa Senators.

Connor McDavid’s Oilers receive strong warning from Stan Bowman before trade deadline

Connor McDavid and Oilers reportedly going after veteran teammate of Connor Bedard on Blackhawks

Connor McDavid sends clear message after losing 2026 Winter Olympics gold medal without Sidney Crosby and NHL Stanley Cup finals

Connor McDavid's Oilers receive strong warning from Stan Bowman before trade deadline - Bolavip US

With the NHL trade deadline rising on the horizon, teams are pacing to make last-minute acquisitions. In that context, reports indicate <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid">Connor McDavid</a>’s Edmonton Oilers and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-bedard">Connor Bedard</a>’s Chicago Blackhawks have completed a trade.



Veteran blueliner Connor Murphy might be on the move. According to a report from an NHL insider, the 32-year-old is in the crosshairs of Connor McDavid’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Oilers</a>, who are doing everything in their power to redeem themselves after back-to-back heartbreaks in the Stanley Cup Final. 



Although the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-blackhawks">Blackhawks</a> remain a work in progress—with Connor Bedard essentially running a one-man show—the Oilers believe the experienced Chicago defenseman can be the perfect addition to their championship equation.



“Hearing talks are intensifying for Edmonton to acquire Connor Murphy from Chicago,” Elliotte Friedman reported on his X account. If the report turns out to be true, the trade between McDavid’s Oilers and Bedard’s Blackhawks involving Murphy may very well be dubbed the “Tre Connor” move.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/02160130/connor-murphy-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-589909"><figcaption>Connor Murphy greeting Blackhawks fans</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Trade details</h2>



According to Sportsnet’s Mark Spector, Murphy is headed to Edmonton for a second-round pick. Moreover, the Blackhawks will reportedly retain half of his $4.4 million cap hit ($2.2 million). 


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Murphy’s contract comes to an end after this season, so Chicago would only carry that burden for a couple of months before it’s wiped clean ahead of the offseason.



<h2>Murphy’s numbers</h2>



So far in the 2025-26 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> season, Murphy has recorded perfect attendance, playing in all 60 games for the Blackhawks. Recording an average ice time of 16:34 minutes per game, Murphy has put up 13 points (4 goals and 9 assists), as well as a -3 plus/minus and 46 penalty minutes (PIM). Murphy’s numbers indicate he is not a menace in the offensive zone, but he can be very effective in his own zone. For the Oilers, that may be all they’ve been looking for. 



Murphy usually plays on Chicago’s second defensive pairing alongside 21-year-old Kevin Korchinski. If he were to land in Edmonton, he could keep a similar role in the top four or fill in on the third pairing. Daily Faceoff lists 26-year-old Spencer Stastney and 25-year-old Ty Emberson in those roles at the moment. 



Murphy’s veteran presence could provide a much-needed spark for McDavid and company. Edmonton has allowed way too many goals as of late, engaging in more high-scoring games than the team would like. In the playoffs, that may well be a recipe for disaster—even for a team with McDavid and Draisaitl leading the attack.



<h2>Why move makes sense for Bedard and Blackhawks</h2>



For Chicago, the writing has been on the wall for a while now. Though a hot start to the season gave fans hope of a miraculous ticket to the Stanley Cup Playoffs—similar to what the San Jose Sharks are on track to accomplish—the Blackhawks have run out of gas. Now, it’s time to go back to the drawing board. Murphy, on an expiring contract, has long been linked to a move before the trade deadline. Now, the time may have finally come.


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Connor McDavid and Oilers reportedly going after veteran teammate of Connor Bedard on Blackhawks - Bolavip US

McDavid and Oilers reportedly going after veteran teammate of Bedard on Blackhawks

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton Oilers</a> confirmed that forward Andrew Mangiapane and defenceman Alec Regula and have been placed on waivers. The decision signals a potential shift in strategy as the organization evaluates depth and looks to create flexibility heading into a crucial stretch of the season.



Placing Regula and Mangiapane on waivers opens the door for other NHL teams to claim them, while also giving Edmonton options in terms of salary cap management and lineup adjustments.



For <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid">Connor McDavid</a> and the Oilers, every roster decision carries weight. Whether this is a short-term adjustment or part of a broader recalibration, the coming days will determine if either player remains in the organization or finds a new opportunity elsewhere in the league.



<h2>Can Connor McDavid and the Oilers make the playoffs?</h2>



The Edmonton Oilers currently sit third in the Pacific Division with 66 points behind the Golden Knights and the Ducks. They’re in the thick of the Western Conference playoff race. 


 

 


On paper, that position places them in a qualifying spot, but the margin for error is minimal. A short slump could quickly tighten the standings and force them into a more precarious wild-card battle.



Recent history suggests the Oilers know how to elevate their level when it matters most. In each of the last two seasons with Connor McDavid leading the way, the Oilers reached the Stanley Cup Final, only to fall to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/florida-panthers">Florida Panthers</a>. That experience provides both confidence and urgency, as the core understands what it takes to navigate the postseason grind.


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Connor McDavid’s Oilers put Andrew Mangiapane and Alec Regula on waivers

Connor McDavid could miss time with Oilers as NHL resumes after 2026 Olympics

Connor McDavid's Oilers put Andrew Mangiapane and Alec Regula on waivers - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid">Connor McDavid</a> faced the microphones with the weight of another missed opportunity on his shoulders. After Canada fell short in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/winter-olympics">2026 Winter Olympics</a> final, the familiar narrative resurfaced. A reporter pointed out that icons like Sidney Crosby and Wayne Gretzky captured both Stanley Cups and Olympic gold medals, while McDavid, despite repeatedly putting himself in position, has yet to secure either prize.



“It’s a nice question. Thank you. It’s disappointing. No way around it. We could be sitting here having a totally different conversation if things had gone a little bit differently. So, yeah, it’s hard. It’s hard to win at any level, especially when we’re talking about the best of the very best in the NHL and the Olympics. Margins are very small. We obviously saw that and we felt the effects of that here in Edmonton from time to time.”



The answer reflected both frustration and perspective. McDavid did not deflect, nor did he hide from the comparison to legends such as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sidney-crosby">Sidney Crosby</a> and Gretzky. Instead, he acknowledged the razor-thin margins that define championships at the highest level, whether in the NHL or on the Olympic stage. For a player widely considered the best in the world, the absence of a title has become an increasingly loud talking point.



<h2>Connor McDavid faces a tough moment after the 2026 Olympics</h2>



Inexplicably, some critics have intensified their scrutiny. Connor McDavid has now lost consecutive Stanley Cup Finals with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton Oilers</a> against the Florida Panthers, and the Olympic defeat only adds to the narrative. The fact that Canada fell short with Crosby sidelined due to injury fueled even more debate, as McDavid became the captain and couldn’t deliver a gold medal.


 

 


However, McDavid’s accolades already place him among the elite of his generation, regardless of hardware. The Stanley Cup and Olympic gold remain defining milestones, but they are not the sole measure of impact or brilliance. In the end, it’s a team sport.



His candid response after a very tough question underscored a truth that even legends would recognize: winning at the highest level is brutally difficult. For McDavid, the pursuit continues. And in a sport decided by inches and moments, it may only take one breakthrough to shift the entire conversation. Undoubtedly, he will be Canada’s leader in 2030 with a new generation of players to support him.


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Connor McDavid, Mitch Marner and Team Canada get warning from Jon Cooper after Sidney Crosby’s injury vs Czechia in 2026 Winter Olympics hockey

Sidney Crosby sends clear message to NHL about allowing players to participate in Winter Olympics after injury

Connor McDavid sends clear message after losing 2026 Winter Olympics gold medal without Sidney Crosby and NHL Stanley Cup finals - Bolavip US

Connor McDavid's message after losing gold medal

Edmonton Oilers star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid">Connor McDavid</a> may need some time off the ice following his extensive participation in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/winter-olympics">2026 Winter Olympics</a> with Canada. The team is monitoring his workload carefully, recognizing the physical and mental toll of competing at the highest level internationally before returning to the grind of the NHL schedule.



Coach Kris Knoblauch addressed the situation and the challenges of immediately reintegrating McDavid into the lineup. “Yeah, I guess it all depends on numerous things. When he’s ready to play, we’ll obviously have to have some conversations with him. Playing in the back-to-back would be difficult. For him to play 23 or 24 minutes in back-to-back games after the Olympics and traveling from Europe, I don’t think that’s putting him in a very good position to help us.”



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Oilers</a> are balancing the need to win games early in the restart of the NHL season with protecting their franchise player. While McDavid’s potential absence raises short-term concerns, the long-term benefit of allowing him to recover properly could be pivotal for Edmonton’s playoff push.



<h2>When will Connor McDavid play for Oilers after 2026 Olympics?</h2>



Connor McDavid is expected to be available for the Edmonton Oilers when the NHL resumes after the 2026 Winter Olympics. However, his minutes on the ice may be managed carefully to account for the heavy workload from the international tournament.


 

 


Given the Oilers begin their schedule with back-to-back games against Anaheim and the Kings, McDavid’s ice time could be limited initially. This approach ensures he can transition smoothly back into the NHL pace while avoiding fatigue or risk of injury after a long Olympic campaign in Europe.



While McDavid’s presence will be critical for Edmonton’s offensive output, fans should expect a gradual reintegration. The team’s focus will be on keeping him fresh and effective, allowing him to regain full strength and be a key contributor for the remainder of the regular season and the playoff push.


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<h2>Oilers schedule after 2026 Olympics</h2>



After the back-to-back games facing Anaheim and the Kings, the Edmonton Oilers will play on Saturday against the San Jose Sharks and then not again until the following Tuesday with the Ottawa Senators. After that, they face the Hurricanes on Friday, March 6. This schedule gives the team more flexibility to rest Connor McDavid next week and that will affect his presence when the NHL resumes.

Connor Bedard absence sparks huge controversy after not playing for Team Canada in 2026 Winter Olympics loss in gold medal game vs Team USA

Connor McDavid could miss time with Oilers as NHL resumes after 2026 Olympics - Bolavip US

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