Oilers announce major Leon Draisaitl update

Despite not having a secure spot in the standings of the NHL's Western Conference, the Edmonton Oilers have no shortage of offensive weapons. Of course, they're led by the dynamic duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, who are No. 1 and 2 in League scoring, respectively. 

The bad news for the Oilers is that Draisaitl has missed the past two games with what the team described as "bumps and bruises"; he missed Edmonton's 7-2 victory over the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena along with their 2-1 setback against the Winnipeg Jets on New Year's Eve at Rogers Place. 

However, there's good news to be shared. According to head coach Jay Woodcroft, Draisaitl is available to play in tonight's game as the Kraken pay a visit to Edmonton. But does that mean he's going to actually suit up? There was no official word. 

"I think it recovered pretty well and pretty quick, maybe a little quicker than I thought it would, but I'm happy (with) the way it's feeling," Draisaitl himself explained on Monday. 

Opening face-off is scheduled for 9:00 PM EST on ESPN+.