All signs point to Leon Draisaitl returning for the Oilers tonight

The Edmonton Oilers' quest to get back to the Stanley Cup Final for a third consecutive year begins today, as they take on the Anaheim Ducks in Game 1 of their first round playoff series.

Prior to the game, Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch met with reporters this morning and, of course, he was asked about the status of superstar forward Leon Draisaitl. Of course, Draisaitl has been out of action since March 15th with an injury but there has been speculation that he would return to the team in time for the playoffs.

When asked specifically if Draisaitl will play tonight, Knoblauch gave a non-answer.

Meanwhile, TSN Oilers insider Ryan Rishaug reports that Draisaitl skipped today's optional skate, which is usually an indication that he plans on playing later in the evening.

All signs seem to indicate that Draisaitl will in fact play this evening, even if the Oilers fail to confirm the news. Stay tuned.