Oilers Get Boost: McDavid Back for Ducks Game, Henrique Returns

Anaheim, CA – The Edmonton Oilers are set to receive a significant boost to their lineup Wednesday night as captain Connor McDavid is expected to play against the Anaheim Ducks. This comes after speculation about a possible absence following his participation in the Winter Olympics.

McDavid Ready to Go

Head coach Kris Knoblauch indicated that McDavid is feeling well and is anticipated to play. It’s nice knowing that Connor is coming back and feeling well. We anticipate him playing tonight, Knoblauch said Wednesday afternoon.

McDavid is projected to center the top line with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Zach Hyman, his usual linemates.

Henrique Activated from LTIR

Forward Adam Henrique has been officially activated from Long-Term Injured Reserve and will play his first game since January 6 against the Nashville Predators, having previously suffered a broken finger.

While Henrique’s offensive production has been modest this season with two goals and 10 points in 35 games, he remains a key component of the Oilers’ penalty kill.

I’ve gone through slumps or down spots and it’s a matter of just working through it. I feel like the times where you’re getting opportunities and getting chances, but they’re not going in the net you can easily get frustrated and that’s when things can snowball and go the wrong way and you start cheating the game a little bit and then other things go the wrong way, Henrique told Gregor.

So, as much as I want to score, I have to make sure my complete game is there. I have to be quality defensively and be on the defensive side of the puck. And the penalty kills a big part of that. Henrique told Gregor.

Savoie Recalled from Condors

Matthew Savoie has been recalled from the Bakersfield Condors. Savoie had one assist in his one game in the AHL. He currently ranks ninth in team scoring and leads all forwards in penalty kill minutes played, with nine goals and 18 points as a rookie.

The Oilers’ projected lineup is as follows:

• Nugent-Hopkins-McDavid-Hyman
• Savoie-Draisaitl-Roslovic
• Podkolzin-Henrique-Frederic
• Mangiapane-Lazar-Janmark
• Ekholm-Bouchard
• Nurse-Walman
• Stastney-Emberson
• Jarry
• Ingram

FAQ

Is Connor McDavid definitely playing tonight?

All indications are that Connor McDavid will play against the Anaheim Ducks, but the final decision rests with head coach Kris Knoblauch.

When did Adam Henrique last play?

Adam Henrique last played on January 6th before being placed on Long-Term Injured Reserve with a broken finger.

Why was Matthew Savoie recalled?

Matthew Savoie was recalled from the Bakersfield Condors to bolster the Oilers’ forward depth.

The return of McDavid and Henrique provides a timely boost for the Oilers as they navigate a competitive Pacific Division.