Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl will miss multiple games after suffering an injury from a hit during Sunday’s game against Nashville. The team’s leading scorer is awaiting medical evaluation results, with coach Kris Knoblauch providing no specific timeline for his return.

The Edmonton Oilers face a significant challenge as they prepare to compete without their star player Leon Draisaitl for an undetermined period.

Head coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed the news to media on Monday, offering limited details about the injury that occurred during Sunday’s matchup with the Nashville Predators when Draisaitl absorbed a significant body check.

“He had his doctor’s appointment this morning while we were on the ice and I haven’t heard anything since,” Knoblauch said. “I think we’ll be some time without him. I’m not sure if it’s one or two (games) or how long it’s going to be. I don’t have much information right now.”

The 30-year-old forward currently ranks fourth league-wide with 97 points and has been on fire recently, recording 17 points through six goals and 11 assists during his current nine-game scoring run.

The incident occurred when Nashville’s Ozzy Wiesblatt delivered the hit during the opening period. While Draisaitl managed to return for two brief appearances before the first period ended, he remained absent for the remainder of the contest.

Superstar teammate Connor McDavid, who leads the league with 114 points on 37 goals and 77 assists, defended his injured partner while acknowledging the physical nature of the play.

“It’s not the dirtiest check in the world, but it’s just who you hit and the result of it, unfortunately. If you want to hit our top guys, there’s going to be a response,” McDavid stated.

Currently positioned third in the Pacific Division standings, just two points behind the division leader, Edmonton faces a crucial homestand with upcoming contests against San Jose on Tuesday, followed by Florida on Thursday and Tampa Bay on Saturday.

Coach Knoblauch emphasized the team’s cautious approach while recognizing the importance of each remaining game.

“We don’t want to aggravate it and make it worse,” Knoblauch said. “Obviously we’re looking at the big picture, but the games are important. There’s nothing for sure right now making the playoffs and we need to win hockey games, but obviously if he’s not healthy to play, he’s not going to play.”