Kris Knoblauch Reveals Leon Draisaitl's Injury Status

Edmonton Oilers appeared to suffer an injury to one of their superstars in Game one of their series against the Vancouver Canucks.

Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports - Kris Knoblauch Reveals Leon Draisaitl's Injury Status

EDMONTON -- Playoff hockey is back with a bang.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwW1pB_ca4E[/embed]

Game one of the Edmonton Oilers opening game against the Vancouver Canucks was nothing short of a roller coaster ride. The game featured penalties, huge hits and even bigger goals. Although they lost the game in thrilling 5-4 fashion - they almost suffered a bigger loss.

During the second period Leon Draisaitl had left the bench to go to the dressing room. This happened after he took a quick 10ish second shift to test things out, following a harmless-looking crosscheck from Tyler Myers.

After much speculation, Draisaitl did come back to play the third period. He looked timid and slow at different times in the third period. But he didn't look like he was in a lot of pain - just a great deal of discomfort.

After the game was over, Kris Knoblauch was asked about Draisaitl's health. Knoblauch provided some insight into what caused Draisaitl to leave the bench, "nothing at all - just some cramping."

"Between cramping and equipment issues that's why his ice-time was down."

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgblAw8IDQI[/embed]

Some hockey fans don't believe what Knoblauch is selling here - I think it's too early to tell. Obviously, as a spectator of the game I want to believe that I'm not being deceived in any way. On the other hand, this team wants to win every game plus the series and any tactical advantage (that's legal) should be utilized.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8COBP_aelRU[/embed]

Game two tomorrow night will tell us a lot about what's going on with Draisaitl. If he looks like aggressive playoff Draisaitl, then there is nothing to worry about. If he looks like the Draisaitl that played through injury two post season's ago and everyone could tell - then there is cause for concern.

Bookmark The Hockey News Edmonton Oilers team site to never miss news, interviews or any other updates on the Oilers.