The Edmonton Oilers defeated the Dallas Stars 4-1 in Game 4 on Tuesday night and now hold a 3-1 series lead in the Western Conference Final. While everything might seem to be going Edmonton’s way, with the team just one win away from a return to the Stanley Cup Final for the second straight year, not all is well.
Forward Zach Hyman left Game 4 in the first period after taking a hit from Stars forward Mason Marchment. The contact appeared to land directly on Hyman’s right arm. He immediately dropped his stick and went to the dressing room in visible pain.
On Wednesday morning, Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch spoke to the media and provided an update on Hyman’s status moving forward.
He announced the 10-year NHL veteran’s season is “most likely done.”
“Zach’s season’s most likely done,” Knoblauch said. “He’s getting surgery today, and yeah, it’ll be a while, so we’re not expecting him back for the playoffs.”
Knoblauch was then asked if the injury was to Hyman’s wrist or shoulder, but chose not to go into details, simply calling it an “upper-body” injury
This is devastating news for the Oilers, as Hyman has been one of the team’s best players over the past few years, especially in these playoffs.
In 73 regular-season games this year, the former fifth-round pick recorded 27 goals, 17 assists, and 44 points. Through 15 playoff games, he’s added five goals, six assists, and 11 points, and currently leads the NHL in hits with 111.
After Knoblauch’s announcement, Oilers fans shared their reactions on social media, with many of them crushed about the news.
“So devastating for HYMAN he will be missed!! Wishing the BEST for him!!!!!” one fan said.
“Devastated about Hyman,” another wrote.
“‘m devastated for Hyman. He’s been such an important guy. I know he’ll be vocal in the room still. Jeff Skinner. Eyes on you,” added another.
“Very sad and disappointing. Get well soon Zach Hyman,” one said.
“Very tough news to lose him… he plays anywhere in the line up and no one works harder… hope they get this done in Dallas and win that cup so he can lift it,” wrote a fan.
“NOOOOO,” another said.
