Edmonton’s top winger is feeling “really good” and close to a return, but the team’s medical staff isn’t ready to clear him just yet.
Zach Hyman’s return to the Edmonton Oilers lineup will have to wait a little longer. Head coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed Wednesday that the winger won’t play Saturday — his first eligible game off long-term injured reserve (LTIR) — and will remain week to week with a wrist injury.
“He looks ready to go. I want to put him in,” Knoblauch said with a smile after practice. “Our medical staff is holding him back. I don’t think it’s fair.”
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Hyman, who participated fully in practice, said he feels close to returning but understands the need for patience. “I feel really good. I feel close,” he said. “At the end of the day, the doctors are the ones who are there to protect you from yourself at times and make sure that when you do return, that you are able and ready."
The 32-year-old was initially targeting November 1 as a potential return date, but Knoblauch noted it will be “at least a week after that.” The team wants to ensure Hyman’s wrist is fully healed before clearing him to avoid potential setbacks. The biggest issue has been his heavy shooting motion.
Zach Hyman says he feels good, the Oilers want him back, but the medical team is taking a cautious approach. Photo by © Marc DesRosiers Imagn ImagesThe Oilers Will Be Thrilled To Have Hyman Back
Hyman’s absence has been felt throughout Edmonton’s forward group despite the team getting off to one of its better statistical starts in years. He had a bit of a down season after a year where he posted a career-best 54 goals, but he's still one of the team's top scorers. He blends a mix of scoring, forechecking, and grit that is hard to replace. His style of play will be a welcome sight for the 5-4-2 Oilers, who seemed to find their rhythm in the second period against the Utah Mammoth on Tuesday night.
“He provides a lot of things we’ve been looking for,” Connor McDavid said. “It’ll be nice to get him back whenever that is.”
For now, Hyman will continue skating with the team as the Oilers eye a cautious — but imminent — return.
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