Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman will miss Saturday’s matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights as the team manages his injury ahead of the playoffs. The game is set for 10 p.m. ET at Rogers Place in Edmonton.

Head coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed Hyman’s absence, stressing it is a precaution.

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“Yeah, Zach Hyman’s not playing tonight,” Knoblauch said. “If this was a playoff game, he’d be playing. We feel it’s best to give him some rest and let him be healthy and not aggravate anything.”

Knoblauch revealed Hyman has been dealing with the injury for some time. The discomfort persisted despite playing through it, prompting the team to step in.

“Yeah, it was something that he was playing through,” Knoblauch said. “It was uncomfortable. But you know a lot of our players are going through something, but something that wasn’t getting better was something we wanted to just give him some rest so we can heal, and then he’s can be 100% for the playoffs.

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“So whether that’s 5 days, 14 days, somewhere in that window, then we should be good.”

So, the focus remains on having him fully fit when the playoffs start.

Hyman has been a key contributor this season. He has recorded 31 goals and 51 points in 57 games. His physical play and net-front presence have added depth to Edmonton’s offense.

Edmonton enters the game in strong form. The team holds a 39-28-9 record and leads the Pacific Division standings. A five-game winning streak has boosted confidence heading into this matchup.

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Edmonton Oilers celebrate a goal by forward Zach Hyman at Rogers Place.Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

Edmonton Oilers celebrate a goal by forward Zach Hyman at Rogers Place.Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

(Perry Nelson-Imagn Images)

Despite Hyman’s absence, the Oilers continue to rely on their offensive core led by Connor McDavid. Improved goaltending has also helped stabilize recent performances.

Saturday’s game offers another test against a playoff-caliber opponent. While Hyman sits out, Edmonton’s priority remains clear. The team is focused on long-term health as it prepares for another deep playoff run.

Related: Oilers Coach Gives Update on Leon Draisaitl’s Return Timeline

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.