Leon Draisaitl expected back for Oilers Game 1 vs Ducks

Edmonton Oilers star Leon Draisaitl is anticipated to make his long-awaited return for Game 1 of the Western Conference first-round playoff series against the Anaheim Ducks on Monday, April 20, 2026. The German forward has been sidelined since March 15 with a lower-body injury suffered against the Nashville Predators, missing the final 14 regular-season games. Coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed Draisaitl as a game-time decision, alongside forward Jason Dickinson.

Draisaitl rejoined full practices last week and skated with the top power-play unit on Sunday, signaling strong progress toward playoff readiness. His return would provide a massive boost to an Oilers team holding home-ice advantage after finishing second in the Pacific Division.

Draisaitl’s injury recovery journey

Draisaitl’s season was cut short by the lower-body issue in mid-March, prompting a brief trip to Germany for specialist treatment before resuming rehab in Edmonton. He returned to practice on April 13 and has steadily increased his workload, centering lines with Vasily Podkolzin and Kasperi Kapanen in recent sessions.

Knoblauch praised his progress, noting, “Leon’s been trending very well this last week or so and has participated in several practices and he’ll be available sometime in Round 1. Whether that’s (Game) 1 or 5, that hasn’t been decided yet.” Draisaitl himself expressed optimism after Sunday’s skate: “I feel good, we’ll see how it feels tomorrow and then we’ll make a call from there.”

The 30-year-old acknowledged it may take a few games to regain top form, saying, “It’s going to take a little bit of time… I’m going to find my ways to contribute and try to get to my best as quick as I can.” His staff, including strength coach Chad Drummond, has been instrumental in the cautious buildup.

Dickinson, out since April 8 with his own lower-body injury, also skated fully for the first time Sunday, though medical clearance remains pending.

Observers note Draisaitl’s hard skating and power-play involvement suggest readiness for playoff intensity. Captain Connor McDavid highlighted the boost: “That’s really positive… missing those two guys hurts.”

Oilers’ strong regular-season finish

Despite Draisaitl’s absence, Edmonton won seven of their final 11 games, securing second place in the Pacific with a 41-30-11 record. They edged the Ducks by one point for home ice in the series.

McDavid wrapped up the scoring title, underscoring the team’s depth even without their star duo at full strength. Forward Zach Hyman’s return late in the season also bolstered the lineup.

The Oilers’ power play remained elite, setting the stage for playoffs where Draisaitl often thrives as the triggerman alongside McDavid. Over the last five postseasons, they’ve combined for 251 points.

Health has been key down the stretch, with the team now nearing full strength barring last-minute issues. This resilience bodes well for a deep run.

Edmonton’s home record against Anaheim this season was perfect, winning both games 7-4 and 4-2.

First-round series schedule and format

The best-of-seven series follows a 2-2-1-1-1 format, with Edmonton hosting Games 1, 2, 5, and 7 if necessary:

• Game 1: Monday, April 20, 8 p.m. MT, Rogers Place
• Game 2: Wednesday, April 22, 8 p.m. MT, Rogers Place
• Game 3: Friday, April 24, 8 p.m. MT, Honda Center
• Game 4: Sunday, April 26, 7:30 p.m. MT, Honda Center
• Game 5*: Tuesday, April 28, TBD, Rogers Place
• Game 6*: Thursday, April 30, TBD, Honda Center
• Game 7*: Saturday, May 2, TBD, Rogers Place

For full details, check the official Oilers release.

Broadcasts include national coverage on Sportsnet and ESPN2 for Game 1. Times for later games will be set based on earlier results.

The Ducks, third seed, return to playoffs after an eight-year absence. Their fans eagerly await home games at Honda Center.

This setup favors Edmonton’s home dominance early.

Head-to-head history and season matchup

In the 2025-26 regular season, Edmonton won two of three against Anaheim, including both at home (7-4, 4-2), while the Ducks took a 6-5 thriller in California.

Playoff history adds intrigue: Oilers upset Ducks in five games in the 2006 Western Conference Final en route to the Cup Final; Anaheim avenged it by winning in seven during the 2017 second round.

Edmonton’s power play outperformed Anaheim’s by 12% this season, a potential edge. Ducks coach aims to reignite past magic against the favorites.

Recent games show high-scoring affairs, averaging over six goals.

For more previews, see Sportsnet’s series breakdown.

Impact of Draisaitl’s return on Oilers

Draisaitl’s 97 points (35 goals, 62 assists) in 65 games underscore his elite production. Paired with McDavid, they’ve fueled back-to-back Stanley Cup Final runs, losing both to Florida.

His playoff pedigree—119 points over five years—elevates Edmonton’s ceiling. As power-play maestro, he complements McDavid’s speed.

A healthy Draisaitl addresses goaltending concerns and fatal flaws noted by analysts. The team looked solid without him but needs stars for a championship push.

McDavid emphasized health’s role: “With Leo… we missed those guys a lot.” Full strength could end the finals drought.

Draisaitl noted adrenaline masks pain: “The best time of year; there’s nothing like it.”

Oilers’ championship aspirations

After two heartbreaking Cup Final losses, Edmonton enters with unfinished business. The star tandem drives redemption hopes.

Ducks represent a winnable first round, but Anaheim’s youth and history add upset potential. Oilers’ experience should prevail.

A Game 1 win sets tone at home.

Draisaitl’s timely return positions Edmonton for a deep run—what it means for the Cup chase is everything. Fans pack Rogers Place tonight, ready for playoff magic. With stars aligned, the Oilers eye the ultimate prize.