Oilers Offer Clearer Timeline on Zach Hyman’s Return

The Edmonton Oilers are finally closing in on the return of one of their most important forwards. According to Sports 1440’s Jason Gregor, Zach Hyman won’t play Wednesday in Philadelphia, but he’s expected to make his season debut either Thursday in Columbus or Saturday in Carolina.

---

Hyman’s availability will depend on how his final mobility and strength tests go, but the update marks the first definitive timeline the team has offered since training camp. “He’s a for sure for Carolina and a possibility for Columbus,” Gregor reported, noting that the Oilers are “hoping for Thursday.”

Hyman has been sidelined with a lingering wrist injury suffered during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs — when he got bumped into by Mason Marchment. What looked like an innocent play, wound up taking Hyman out completely, forcing him to rehab all summer, and his return has been delayed. Despite multiple setbacks, he is finally ready to come back to the Oilers lineup.

The delay has been more about caution, not concern, as the Oilers want to make sure Hyman’s shot and grip strength are fully back to game level. They don’t want to risk further setbacks.

What Hyman’s Return Means for the Oilers

Hyman’s return will force the Oilers to make a roster move to stay under the 23-man limit, but that’s a problem head coach Kris Knoblauch will gladly take. The veteran forward brings an instant boost to Edmonton’s top six and power play; the former has looked inconsistent early this season.

Hyman tallied 54 goals in 2023-24 and another 27 goals last season. He was a driving force during Edmonton’s playoff run, leading the team in hits before he was sidelined with the injury.

With Hyman back, the Oilers regain a key piece of their identity. It’s something they’ve been lacking, along with their depth scoring.

Next: New Oilers’ Forward Feels the Standard “Unlike Anywhere I’ve Been”