Connor McDavid remains sidelined due to a lower-body injury sustained on March 20 and will not play against the Sharks. While he has returned to practice, his condition is being monitored closely with a focus on ensuring he is fully recovered for the playoffs. Teammate Leon Draisaitl stepped up in McDavid’s absence, scoring two goals and an assist in his return, solidifying his status as a pivotal player for the Oilers. Meanwhile, the Sharks continue their struggles in the season with a recent shootout loss against the Ducks.
"It should be before the regular season ends," Edmonton coach Kris Knoblauch said of McDavid's return. "I think the most important thing is he's healthy and 100 percent for the playoffs."
Draisaitl certainly made an impact in his return with two goals and an assist. The first goal was his 50th, making him the first NHL player this season to reach that plateau, and the second was the OT winner.
He was acquired from the Sharks on March 6. Defenseman Jake Walman got his first Oilers goal in the win over Vegas.
Sharks goalie Alexandar Georgiev made 34 saves and impressed his coach in the process. "It's probably the best I've seen him," Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky said of Georgiev.
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