Can Oilers Shortened Roster Battle Through Odd Injury Trend?

Edmonton Oilers are a team that relies heavily on the production of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

Oilers have a full roster for the home opener on Wednesday. Kailer Yamamoto and Warren Foegele are game-time decisions. Since 2017, the Oilers have had more injuries than in the past. The only other team with more players injured than the Edmonton Oilers is the Chicago Blackhawks. NHL injuries have decreased by 14 percent in last five years. Edmonton has a shorter roster this season. Ken Holland admits that the team will have to deal with the injuries.

Edmonton has a deep and talented roster. The team is very well-stocked with players. If one of their top players gets injured, they have depth in the middle, on the wing and on defense. Calvin Pickard is a key player in goal. If the team needs to call up players from Bakersfield, it doesn't count against the cap. It's possible that the NHL allows callups of players under $850K. Edmonton may need to do that this season.

The Edmonton Oilers are hoping that injuries won't be a problem this season. The team has big expectations coming into the season and needs to avoid injuries to be able to compete for a Stanley Cup.