The Edmonton Oilers will be without two key players when they face the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night, as Zach Hyman and Jake Walman remain sidelined with injuries.
Hyman hasn’t played since Edmonton’s season opener, while Walman will miss his second consecutive game after sitting out Saturday’s victory over the San Jose Sharks.
Hyman Getting Closer to Returning
There was optimism that Hyman could return against Los Angeles, but the veteran winger was skating alongside Max Jones rather than participating on a regular line during Tuesday’s morning skate.
Head coach Mike Babcock confirmed that Hyman wouldn’t play, although his return appears to be getting closer. “They told me he’s not playing tonight,” Babcock said. “It sounds like it’s day-to-day, it’s really close, but what does that mean?”
Babcock previously expressed optimism about Hyman returning against the Kings, but medical clearance remains the final hurdle.
Walman Remains Sidelined
Walman will also miss Tuesday’s contest after sitting out Edmonton’s previous game against San Jose.
With Walman unavailable, Shakir Mukhamadullin is expected to remain alongside Ty Emberson on the third defensive pairing. Mattias Ekholm and Evan Bouchard will continue anchoring the blue line. Despite the injuries, Edmonton has continued finding ways to win. The Oilers enter Tuesday riding a four-game winning streak and remain the NHL’s only team without a regulation loss. Devon Levi will get the start in goal as Edmonton looks to complete a three-game California road trip sweep.
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