The Edmonton Oilers are grappling with the fallout of Kasperi Kapanen's injury sustained in Sunday's game against the Detroit Red Wings. The winger, known for his speed, energy, and forechecking ability, went hard into the boards after missing a hit, leaving the game and not returning. While the exact nature and duration of his absence remain unclear, coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged the significant loss, stating, "Kapanen's been playing really well for us, giving us a little more energy, a little more speed, getting in on the forecheck". Oilers radio host Bob Stauffer suggested Kapanen "is going to be out a little while".
Kapanen's injury exacerbates an existing issue for the Oilers: a lack of consistent physical presence. Stauffer noted the team has been missing spirit, fight, and aggression, relaying feedback from a New Jersey Devils player who found the Oilers "easy...to play against" because they "didn't fight and compete for space". The Oilers have lost several aggressive players in recent years, including Dylan Holloway, Evander Kane, Corey Perry, and Zach Hyman.
The Oilers rank second-last in the NHL in hits per 60 minutes, averaging 16.9, far behind the league-leading St. Louis Blues at 28.6. While the team elevated its physical play in last year's playoffs, particularly with Kane and Hyman, they need consistent contributors in this area.
With Kapanen sidelined, the onus falls on other players to step up and provide the needed physicality. Several players could potentially fill this void.
Trent Frederic: Signed to an eight-year deal, Frederic was brought in to provide a strong two-way game and be a "fearsome physical force on the forecheck". While he has yet to fully realize that potential as an Oiler, now is his opportunity to "hit hard, agitate, and stand up for his teammates".
Vasily Podkolzin: Podkolzin, along with Kapanen, has been among the team's more physical players this season. With Kapanen out, Podkolzin needs to maintain and even elevate his level of play. Kris Knoblauch might consider pairing Podkolzin and Frederic on the wings.
Noah Philp and Curtis Lazar: Both Philp and Lazar have shown a willingness to hit but have struggled to find consistent spots in the lineup. Kapanen's injury could open the door for increased playing time and a chance to contribute physically.
The Oilers' depth chart has been touted as the deepest and most versatile in the Connor McDavid era. The team needs to translate that depth into consistent intensity and pushback on the ice. Finding a reliable physical presence, or several, will be crucial to addressing the team's struggles and supporting its star players. While David Tomasek may draw into the lineup, he is not necessarily known for his physical play.
The Oilers need players to "dig in" and "ratchet up the intensity," even if they are not built to be an "uber-physically competitive team". The coming games will reveal who is ready to answer the call and provide the necessary edge in Kapanen's absence.
