It appears that if the Oilers want Mattias Ekholm back, they will have to wait for a deeper playoff run, as it's been revealed he could return for later rounds.
The Edmonton Oilers likely will need a deep playoff run if they hope to get Mattias Ekholm on the ice this season.
The Oilers penalty kill has really missed Ekholm's presence
Despite tying their series against the LA Kings on Sunday without their top Swedish defenseman, it's clear the Oilers miss him. There have been consistent defensive breakdowns, and the penalty kill has looked worse without him.
Ekholm won't return for the first round, and only a deep playoff run, according to Sports 1440's Jason Gregor, would provide a possibility for him to play again. The full extent of the injury is unknown.
'Update on Ekholm. He has responded well. And now there is a chance he could return LATER in playoffs,' wrote Gregor. 'Not this round. Unlikely in second round but then maybe.'
Ekholm had only just returned from a previous injury when he departed the April 11 game against San Jose after another setback.
At the same time, Edmonton has been counting heavily on Darnell Nurse to fill Ekholm's shoes, but his play has not been stellar.
Nurse has been on the ice for 12 goals against in four games and only three goals for. Ekholm's customary linemate, Evan Bouchard, has gotten four goals, tied for the playoff lead, but has been poor on defense.
For Ekholm to return, the Oilers need to work past the Kings and then defeat either the Vegas Golden Knights or the Minnesota Wild. It's a challenging road ahead, but Sunday's effort showed Edmonton won't quit quietly.
