Oilers’ Zach Hyman Likely Out for Entire Playoffs After Shoulder Injury

EDMONTON, Alberta — Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman is expected to miss the remainder of the Stanley Cup playoffs due to an upper-body injury sustained in Game 4 against the Dallas Stars on Tuesday night. Coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed that Hyman will undergo surgery on Wednesday.

The injury occurred early in the first period during a collision with Dallas forward Mason Marchment. Hyman attempted to evade a check but was clipped on the arms, causing him to drop his stick and skate off the ice favoring his right arm.

“Zach’s season is most likely done,” Knoblauch said. “We’re not expecting him back for the playoffs.” Hyman has been a key contributor for the Oilers, leading the league with 111 hits and adding five goals and six assists in the playoffs.

In the regular season, Hyman recorded 27 goals and 54 points. He played a crucial role in last year’s playoff run, scoring 16 goals as the Oilers reached Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final. Knoblauch recognized Hyman’s significance, saying, “He has put everything out there. His two-way play was tremendous, and now that we’re missing him, other guys will need to step up.”

The Oilers, who won the Game 4 matchup 4-1 and lead the series 3-1, will need to adjust their lineup for Game 5. Hyman’s absence was already felt as the Oilers finished the game with only 11 forwards after he left.

“It’s a big loss. He’s a leader on and off the ice,” said Oilers forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. “But other guys are ready to step up. This is when everyone wants to contribute.” Hyman will likely be replaced in the lineup by Jeff Skinner or another forward as the team heads into a critical Game 5 on Thursday in Dallas.

As the Oilers look to advance to the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year, they must navigate the postseason without one of their top performers. The Oilers and Stars meet again Thursday at 8 p.m. ET.