Connor McDavid awaits $38,500,000 Oilers teammate return, to take over from inexperienced forwards still "finding their way"

Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid is highly anticipating Zach Hyman’s return after receiving a major injury boost.

Hyman, who’s been out of the lineup after sustaining a dislocated right wrist injury during the Western Conference Final last season, is closing in on his return to play his first game this season.

Although he won’t be available for the weekend’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks on Nov. 1, he could be back in the lineup as soon as the game against the Colorado Avalanche at Rogers Place on Nov. 8.

During an interview with NHL.com, Connor McDavid said Hyman’s return will be a huge boost for the team to support inexperienced players who are still making their way in the lineup:

"It'll be a huge boost for sure. We've got some young forwards on the team that are kind of finding their way, and it'll be good to get him back and everything that he provides. He obviously skates well, he's physical, and he goes to the net hard – all stuff we've kind of been missing, so it'll be huge to get him back."

Edmonton Oilers

@EdmontonOilers

"It'll be a huge boost." Zach Hyman is feeling ready & nearing his return to the #Oilers lineup after his wrist injury during the Western Conference Final.

Zach Hyman, currently signed to a seven-year, $38.5 million contract, notched 44 points through 27 goals and 17 assists last term. His return will be a major boost for the Oilers, who at times have struggled to generate offense and convert power plays in his absence.

NHL insider believes Connor McDavid will be the MVP at 2026 Milan Olympics

NHL insider Pierre LeBrun has picked Connor McDavid as his top pick for the MVP award at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics. Speaking on TSN, he said:

"I'm going to say on the ice. Conor McDavid wins MVP at the Milan Olympics, which I look forward to going over and covering," LeBrun said. "Off the ice, Sidney Crosby's impact is already unreal."

Team Canada will feature a star-studded lineup, including McDavid, Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, Brayden Point, and Sam Reinhart, at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics, scheduled to take place in February 2026.