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Oilers' Draisaitl Out for Season, Hopes for Playoff Return

3/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Leon Draisaitl, star forward for Edmonton Oilers, will miss remainder of the 2025-26 regular season with a lower-body injury.
The injury occurred on March 15, 2026, during a game with the Nashville Predators.
Draisaitl has 35 goals and 62 assists for 97 points this season, while the Oilers sit third in the Pacific Division.
General Manager Stan Bowman expressed hope for a playoff return, noting Draisaitl does not require surgery.

History

Historical Context

The NHL's expansion in 1967 marked a pivotal moment, doubling its teams from six to twelve, including the Los Angeles Kings and Philadelphia Flyers. This move significantly boosted the league's popularity, increasing its fan base by over 50%. Today, the Edmonton Oilers, featuring star Leon Draisaitl, continue to thrive in this legacy, highlighting the ongoing importance of star players in engaging fans and driving team success.

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Story summary

Leon Draisaitl, star forward for Edmonton Oilers, will miss remainder of the 2025-26 regular season with a lower-body injury.
The injury occurred on March 15, 2026, during a game with the Nashville Predators.
Draisaitl has 35 goals and 62 assists for 97 points this season, while the Oilers sit third in the Pacific Division.
General Manager Stan Bowman expressed hope for a playoff return, noting Draisaitl does not require surgery.

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