As the National Hockey League off-season progresses, the focus for many players shifts from playoff intensity or early vacation to recovery and preparation for the demanding schedule ahead. For Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman, the current priority remains healing from a significant injury sustained during the team`s deep playoff run: a fractured wrist.
Hyman suffered the injury in Game 4 of the Western Conference Final against the Dallas Stars. The incident occurred when he was hit by Mason Marchment while moving the puck out of his defensive zone. The immediate reaction – dropping his stick and heading to the locker room – underscored the severity of the impact.
Providing an update on his condition, Hyman indicated that his recovery is on track, albeit requiring patience. He confirmed he is still wearing a protective brace on his wrist, a necessary step following surgery. The good news, from his perspective, is the anticipated removal of the brace in approximately two weeks from the time of his comments. Despite this positive step, he noted he remains firmly “in the recovery phase” and is eager to resume on-ice activities when medically cleared.
The critical question for the Oilers and their fanbase is whether the productive winger will be ready for the opening night of the 2025-26 season. On this point, Hyman was pragmatic and notably cautious. Drawing from previous experiences with serious injuries, such as an ACL tear earlier in his career, he expressed a clear reluctance to commit to a specific return date. Setting firm timelines, he explained, can lead to disappointment if recovery does not progress exactly as hoped.
“I don’t even know what the timeline is, to be honest,” Hyman stated, before adding, “but that’s definitely not out of the question.” He reiterated his personal policy: “I haven’t set a date or anything like that… I hope to play on opening night. I don’t know if I will.” This measured approach highlights a focus on ensuring the wrist is fully healed and robust before returning to the physical demands of NHL hockey, rather than rushing back for an arbitrary calendar date.
Hyman`s value to the Oilers extends beyond goal-scoring; his relentless forecheck, puck retrieval ability, and leadership are integral to the team`s identity. His potential absence at the start of the season, even if brief, would necessitate adjustments to the forward lines. However, his current focus is singular: diligently completing the rehabilitation process. While hoping for the best-case scenario of being available from Game 1, his emphasis remains on achieving a complete recovery to be effective for the entirety of the campaign.
Ellis Thorne 
Percy Harlow