Oilers Face Elimination with McDavid in Lineup Against Ducks

Connor McDavid is in the lineup for the Edmonton Oilers as they host the Anaheim Ducks in Game 5 of their first-round Western Conference playoff series on April 28, 2026. The Oilers are trailing the Ducks 3-1 in this best-of-seven series and face elimination tonight.

McDavid’s participation was uncertain as he missed the team’s morning skate earlier on Tuesday. Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed McDavid’s status, emphasizing the need for other players to step up. ‘Any time you’re missing someone, you need someone stepping up,’ Knoblauch said.

Knoblauch noted that several players are banged up but continue to play. He added, ‘Ultimately, everyone has to step it up a little bit. Playoffs are a tough time to play. It’s tight checking, there’s not much room.’

Oilers forward Jason Dickinson, who missed Games 2 and 3 with a lower-body injury, also missed the morning workout but returned for Game 5. McDavid’s absence from the morning skate raised concerns, especially since he had previously skipped practice before Game 4 but played 19:32 in that match, recording two assists.

The only indication of concern for McDavid occurred during Game 2 when a collision with teammate Mattias Ekholm sent him to the dressing room with a lower-body issue. He returned to finish the game, logging over 24 minutes of ice time.

As the Oilers prepare for this crucial matchup, the stakes are high. They must win to keep their playoff hopes alive against the Ducks.