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Oilers Star Draisaitl Sidelined with Knee Injury
Medical expert sheds light on mystery ailment that could keep him out until playoffs
Mar. 19, 2026 at 2:11am
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The Edmonton Oilers have been tight-lipped about the extent of star center Leon Draisaitl's latest injury, but a medical expert believes it could be an MCL issue that will sideline him for the rest of the regular season. The Oilers remain optimistic Draisaitl will return for the playoffs, but his absence is a major blow as the team fights for a postseason berth.
Why it matters
Draisaitl is the Oilers' second-leading scorer and a key part of their offense alongside Connor McDavid. His extended absence could jeopardize the team's playoff positioning, especially with the Oilers not yet secure in a postseason spot. The injury also raises questions about the team's transparency around player health issues.
The details
According to medical expert Dr. Harjas Grewal, Draisaitl's injury could be an MCL issue based on video footage, which would typically sideline a player for 4-6 weeks. The Oilers have only said Draisaitl will miss the rest of the regular season and be reevaluated, signaling the injury may be more serious. GM Stan Bowman remains optimistic Draisaitl will return for the playoffs, but the team will need to make up for his production in the meantime.
- Draisaitl was injured during the Oilers' game against the San Jose Sharks on March 18, 2026.
- The Oilers announced Draisaitl will miss the remainder of the regular season and be reevaluated.
The players
Leon Draisaitl
The Edmonton Oilers' star center who is sidelined with a knee injury that could be an MCL issue.
Dr. Harjas Grewal
A medical expert who believes Draisaitl's injury is likely an MCL issue based on video footage.
Stan Bowman
The general manager of the Edmonton Oilers who remains optimistic Draisaitl will return for the playoffs.
What they’re saying
“Different video suggests potentially a left knee issue for Draisaitl? Some inner stress so maybe MCL? Surprised he's out rest of reg season considering he played another shift and there seemed to be optimism prior to today too but clearly MRI found something”
— Dr. Harjas Grewal, Medical Expert
“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.”
— Stan Bowman, General Manager, Edmonton Oilers
What’s next
The Oilers will need to determine the full extent of Draisaitl's injury and provide updates on his recovery timeline. The team is expected to place him on long-term injured reserve to free up salary cap space to call up additional players to help offset his absence.
The takeaway
Draisaitl's injury is a major blow to the Oilers' playoff hopes, as he is a crucial part of their offense alongside Connor McDavid. The team's lack of transparency around the injury has raised concerns, but they remain optimistic he will return in time for the postseason. In the meantime, the Oilers will need a complete team effort to make up for Draisaitl's production and secure a playoff berth.
