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Mattias Ekholm Spotted Back on the Ice: Fans Won't Like the Latest Update

Originally posted on Hockey Latest | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated May 12, 2025 3:53 PM ET

There was a familiar face at Oilers practice today, as Mattias Ekholm was spotted on the ice, however, the latest update is that he is still far from a return.

Injured Edmonton Oilers defenseman Mattias Ekholm has resumed skating, a positive development in his recovery, according to Edmonton Sports Talk's Tom Gazzola.

Ekholm has been sidelined since April 11 after an early departure against the Sharks, playing fewer than two minutes before a collision forced him out. Early concerns were that it was a season-ending injury, but resuming skating suggests otherwise.

While skating is a good sign, Gazzola reports Ekholm is 'still weeks away, at best,' so a return does not appear imminent.

The Oilers currently hold a 2-1 lead over the Golden Knights in the second round, and that series will wrap up no later than May 18.

It's too soon to say whether Ekholm would return for Round 3

If Edmonton advances, the Western Conference Final would likely begin soon after, which would put Ekholm's availability for the start of that round in serious doubt.

However, he hasn't been ruled out for the playoffs and may yet return later in the postseason.

He was a key contributor a year ago, averaging 22 minutes per game and posting 10 points in 25 playoff games during the Oilers' run to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final.

Ekholm recorded 33 points in 65 regular-season games this year and remains an essential part of Edmonton's back end. His absence has been felt, as the team is allowing a playoff-worst 3.78 goals per game.

A potential return, even deep in the playoffs, would give the Oilers an enormous boost.

This article first appeared on Hockey Latest and was syndicated with permission.

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