In an Edmonton Oilers information and rumors replace, because the NHL gears up for the extremely anticipated matchup between Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby, one other emotional narrative unfolds: Jesse Puljujarvi’s return to Edmonton to face his former workforce. In the meantime, the Oilers have promising information concerning Evander Kane, who could return to the lineup ahead of anticipated, offering a much-needed enhance to a workforce struggling for consistency. Moreover, McDavid has voiced his enthusiasm for teaming up with Crosby on the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off, advocating for Crosby to put on the captain’s ‘C’. He’s calling the choice a “no-brainer.”
Evander Kane’s Return to Oilers Anticipated by Early 2025
There’s doubtlessly excellent news for the Oilers as ahead Evander Kane’s return to the lineup could come ahead of anticipated. Initially projected to be sidelined till March or presumably the rest of the 2024-25 NHL season, Kane would possibly now rejoin the workforce by early 2025. NHL insider Kevin Weekes just lately reported that Kane is on observe for a comeback after present process surgical procedures to handle a number of core accidents.
Associated: NHL Rumors: Oilers, Maple Leafs, Canadiens, Rangers
Kane’s return would offer a major enhance for the Oilers, who’ve been struggling to seek out consistency of their efficiency this season. Weekes shared, “I’m advised F Evander Kane is on observe for his return to the Edmonton Oilers lineup from his accidents/surgical procedure, and so on., for early 2025.” That is forward of schedule as early projections seemed like he might doubtlessly be little greater than a playoff addition.
The prospect of getting Kane again on the ice is encouraging for each the workforce and its followers. Identified for his scoring skill and bodily play, Kane’s attributes are lacking from the lineup this season. And, as a result of the workforce isn’t scoring as they’d have hoped, his 20-plus targets are missed too.
Jesse Puljujarvi Set to Face Former Group Oilers for the First Time
Whereas most eyes are centered on the much-anticipated matchup between McDavid and Crosby, Jesse Puljujarvi’s return to Edmonton shouldn’t be missed. This marks Puljujarvi’s first recreation in opposition to the Oilers since his departure, and he shared his ideas in an interview with Each day Hive.
“I’m excited to play my first recreation in opposition to the Oilers,” Puljujarvi expressed. “A number of reminiscences—performed my first recreation, over 300 video games, so there’s a variety of reminiscences. Good video games, dangerous video games. It was actually good to be a part of the Oilers.”
Now with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Puljujarvi has totally recovered from hip surgical procedure that restricted his play final season. He’s making an affect in Pittsburgh’s backside six, already tallying 5 factors in simply seven video games this yr. He famous:
“It’s been an extended journey for me, getting back from huge surgical procedure and an extended rehab. This summer season was actually huge for me as a result of I didn’t should do rehab. I used to be in a position to prepare.”
It’s anticipated that the followers will give him a heat welcome, even after years of friction with the membership as he was looking for his place within the NHL.
McDavid Helps Crosby as Captain for 4 Nations Face-Off
In a current assertion, McDavid expressed his enthusiasm for teaming up with Crosby on the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off however believes it’s not even a query as to who needs to be the captain. “He’s been there so many occasions,” McDavid mentioned.
In relation to enjoying with Crosby, he added, “I’m actually trying ahead to it.” Earlier than then, they’ll play in opposition to one another. McDavid is ready to face Crosby for the 14th time of their careers throughout the common season. “We nonetheless wish to win; he nonetheless needs to win tomorrow. That aggressive hearth will probably be there, however come February, we’ll be teammates,” McDavid remarked.
