Mattias Ekholm was a full participant at Oilers practice Monday

Ahead of schedule

Ekholm is not expected to return until likely Game 5 at the earliest. However, the fact that Ekholm is back at practice as a full participant this early is massive news.

When the injury happened, it was reported that Ekholm would likely be out for 15 weeks, which would essentially cover the balance of the season. It’s been eight weeks and he’s already skating at practice.

Of course, Ekholm should not rush back if he’s not healthy enough to endure multiple NHL playoff games, but if and when he is able to return to the Oilers lineup, he will immediately provide a massive boost to an already deep and hot roster.

The Oilers have not played poorly defensively without Ekholm, but with Ekholm in the lineup they might be the best defensive team in the NHL, a nice complement to the fact that they’re definitely the best offensive team in the NHL.

If the Oilers can keep this third-round series going for the first four games, they will be in great shape to cruise to the Cup with Ekholm joining them in about a week’s time.