Oilers share concerning update on defenceman Mattias Ekholm

It's a bit concerning that Ekholm is taking longer than expected to make his recovery and return to the lineup, but the Oilers don't need to panic about his absence yet. It's also concerning to hear an illness linger for so long.

As for the other injury on defence, John Klingberg has been able to make the trip to join the Oilers on the road trip. Klingberg has missed time with an injury after a shot block, but joining the team mid-road trip is a good indication it's not a serious injury.

Mattias Ekholm appears to need extra time after being shut down

Ekholm began missing practice in the month of January with illness, and it was reported he was still dealing with the issue as recently as the 4 Nations Faceoff.

The veteran Swedish defenceman played a few tough games after the tournament before the Oilers made the call to shut him down, and allow him some real rest.

Ekholm's getting up there in age now at 34 years old, and is still an incredibly important player for the team with his solid two-way play. The Oilers are right to shut him down, get him rested from any injuries or illness, and having him in peak shape before playoffs.

For now the Oilers will greatly miss Ekholm, but when he returns fully healthy and with added defensive help on the roster, Edmonton's blue line may be at its best in decades.