Edmonton Oilers fans received encouraging news regarding the anticipated return of Zach Hyman, who has been sidelined since sustaining a wrist injury in Game 4 of the Western Conference Final against the Dallas Stars on May 27. The injury, which ultimately required surgery, has kept the star winger off the ice, but a return appears to be on the horizon.
Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch provided an optimistic update, suggesting that Hyman is trending towards a return to the lineup around November 1st. This is the first day Hyman is eligible to be taken off the long-term injured reserve (LTIR). While Knoblauch stopped short of guaranteeing Hyman would be ready for that specific game against the Chicago Blackhawks, he expressed hope that it would be "early November".
"Zach's very upbeat and cheerful because he's joined the team and is part of our practices now," Knoblauch said. He has been fully participating in skating practices.
Hyman dislocated his wrist after a hit from Stars forward Mason Marchment, which led to surgery the next day. He was unable to participate in the remainder of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The 32-year-old Hyman's absence has been felt by the Oilers, who are looking to solidify their position after a slow start to the regular season. His presence on the top line, often alongside Connor McDavid, is considered crucial to the team's offensive success. In the games he played before the injury last season, Hyman tallied 11 points (five goals, six assists) in 15 playoff games, and 44 points (27 goals, 17 assists) in 73 regular-season games.
The forward's return is expected to provide a significant boost to the Oilers' top-six forward group. Not only is Hyman a scoring threat, coming off a career-best 54-goal campaign in 2023-24, but he also plays a vital role on the power play, screening the goalie and redirecting shots. Beyond his on-ice contributions, Hyman is also a respected voice in the Oilers' locker room.
While Hyman has been focused on his rehabilitation, the Oilers have placed forward Kasperi Kapanen on injured reserve, who is expected to be out for weeks after sustaining a knee injury.
As Hyman continues to progress through his rehabilitation, the Oilers and their fans eagerly anticipate his return to the ice. If Hyman can return to form quickly, he should help boost the Oilers.
