Major Update On The Health Of Edmonton Oilers' Star Defenseman

The Edmonton Oilers have been trying to find defensive stability to surround stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Today they got positive news on that front as one of their star defensemen got a major update on his health.

Earlier today it was announced that key defenseman for the Edmonton Oilers Mattias Ekholm had officially returned to practice.

This was the first sighting of Mattias Ekholm with the main training camp group since the team began skating. This is huge news for the Oilers who will need Ekholm at his best to be the team they want to be.

After practice Ekholm commented on his status and where things are at after his hip injury. The comments gave an interesting insight into his rehab process.

"It's been going on a bit longer than I'd anticipated," said Ekholm about his hip. "I thought I'd be full-on a couple of weeks ago.

"(Rehab is) kinda boring for sure. It isn't the most fun."

"You don't have much time to heal during the season, " added Ekholm, "so taking the time now to do it and do it for real, that's where we're at."

While it sounds like significant progress has been made for Ekholm to return there is still more work to be done. As Ekholm said the focus is on getting completely healthy as that is not a luxury available in the middle of the season. Ekholm was asked the big question of whether or not he believes he will be ready for opening night. His answer while hopeful was left open-ended.

Ekholm skated with main group this morning. He won't play tonight. Said he can't say for sure if he'll he ready opening night because this injury has taken longer to heal than he originally thought.

McLeod won't play tonight, but he expects to be ready for opening night.

With these updates in mind watching the next few days of Oilers practice will give more of an indication of Ekholm's status. Whether he returns by opening night or a few weeks into the season Ekholm and his veteran presence will be a massive asset to the Edmonton Oilers and their defensive group.

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6 OCTOBRE \| 175 ANSWERS Major Update On The Health Of Edmonton Oilers' Star Defenseman Will Mattias Ekholm be ready to go by opening night?
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