Oilers' Star McDavid Sidelined After Collision in 6-1 Loss to Blue Jackets; Awaiting Further Evaluation in Edmonton
Edmonton Oilers standout Connor McDavid was forced to exit Monday’s game due to a lower-body injury on his initial shift and did not come back.
He was tripped without a penalty being called in the first period while entering the Columbus Blue Jackets zone in a 6-1 loss, causing him to slide into the boards. McDavid rose to his feet and glided leisurely towards the Oilers’ bench, lifting his left leg.
“Hopefully, short-term, And our team’s going to look different. Maybe it’s one or two games, I’m not sure.” : Kris Knoblauch said.
Coach Kris Knoblauch mentioned post-game that McDavid was heading back to Edmonton for additional assessment.
3. Drake Caggiula
Caligula, aged 30, performed well in training camp but was reassigned to Bakersfield due to a lack of available positions in the lineup. However, Cannula has made an impressive beginning to the season in the AHL, registering two goals and three assists to accumulate five points in just five games. Although primarily a center, Caggiula also has the versatility to play on the wing. Assuming all centers move up one line, Caggiula could be placed on the fourth line alongside Corey Perry and Mattias Janmark. Caggiula’s status as one of the older players on the Condors is advantageous because he has more experience than many of the younger prospects.
2. Lane Pederson
Pederson is a compelling choice. At 27 years old, he is considered to be on the older side and has gained NHL experience playing for teams such as the San Jose Sharks, Columbus Blue Jackets, Arizona Coyotes, and the Vancouver Canucks. In the previous season, Pederson scored 52 points in 66 matches while playing for the Condors. This season, he has started slowly, only managing to get two assists in five games. However, Pederson is capable of playing both as a center and on the wing. Having that kind of flexibility provides Kris Knoblauch with choices, particularly when trying to adjust lines during a game.
This chance would give Savoie the opportunity to have an important role with the Edmonton Oilers. He played a crucial role in the trade deal involving Ryan McLeod and the Buffalo Sabres. Therefore, the Oilers have great expectations for Savoie, anticipating his potential as a top-six NHL forward. The Oilers could consider trying Savoie in the top six while Connor McDavid is absent. Maybe he could replace Vasily Podkolzin on the second line. So far, Savoie has had a successful beginning with Bakersfield, scoring one goal and earning five points in six games. It is important to mention that Savoie was one of the last players to be cut at the training camp. Therefore, it wouldn’t come as a shock to fans if Savoie is the initial player called up. What does “Replay MEAN” refer to? The Oilers have a few days off before their upcoming game against the Nashville Predators. Therefore, the club has the opportunity to choose someone to replace Connor McDavid.
Image Credit: Brian Bradshaw Sevald-Imagn Images
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