Edmonton Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch delivers devastating injury update on Mattias Ekholm

The Edmonton Oilers have been dealt a significant blow as head coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed that veteran defenseman Mattias Ekholm will miss the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs due to an undisclosed injury. Ekholm, who had recently returned to the lineup after missing seven games, was forced to leave the game against the San Jose Sharks after just three shifts totaling 1:52 of ice time. ([Reuters][1])

“Not confirmed, but it looks like Mattias will be out for a while and won’t be returning any time soon,” Knoblauch stated. “He’s not playing tonight and not playing in the first round of the playoffs.” ([Reuters][1])

Ekholm’s absence is a significant loss for the Oilers, especially as they prepare to face the Los Angeles Kings in the first round of the playoffs. The 34-year-old defenseman has been a key contributor for Edmonton, recording 33 points (nine goals, 24 assists … this season. His experience and defensive prowess have been instrumental in the team’s success. ([Reuters][1])

Knoblauch highlighted Ekholm’s importance to the team, stating, “Mattias is very valuable to our team, No. 1, just being a puck-moving defenseman and putting up points. Among defensemen, 5-on-5 points he’s high up around the NHL, but also playing against other team’s top lines and adding a physical presence.” ([NHL][2])

The Oilers are already dealing with multiple injuries, including forwards Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, and defensemen John Klingberg and Jake Walman. Despite these setbacks, Knoblauch remains optimistic about the team’s depth and ability to compete. “We still have a lot of good players. We’re missing some guys that we wish were in the lineup, but I think we still have a good team and have an excellent opportunity.” ([NHL][2])

As the Oilers prepare for their playoff series against the Kings, the team will need to rely on its depth and resilience to overcome the absence of key players like Ekholm. The first-round matchup marks the fourth consecutive year that Edmonton and Los Angeles have faced each other in the playoffs, adding another chapter to their growing rivalry.([Reuters][1])

[1]: https://www.reuters.com/sports/oilers-d-mattias-ekholm-out-first-round-playoffs-2025-04-14/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Oilers D Mattias Ekholm out for first round of playoffs”
[2]: https://www.nhl.com/news/edmonton-oilers-mattias-ekholm-injury-status-update-april-14-2025?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Ekholm to miss 1st round of Stanley Cup Playoffs for Oilers with injury | NHL.com”