Edmonton Oilers’ Kasperi Kapanen Faces Week-to-Week Absence
Edmonton Oilers forward Kasperi Kapanen is expected to be sidelined for several weeks due to an injury. Head coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed this development following the team’s game on Sunday, where Kapanen left during the second period and did not return.
Kasperi Kapanen’s Performance Overview
Kapanen, in his second season with the Oilers, joined the team from St. Louis last year. He played 57 regular season games, accumulating 13 points. In the Stanley Cup Playoffs, he stepped up significantly, registering three goals and three assists for a total of six points over 12 games while maintaining a plus-4 rating.
- Regular Season: 57 Games, 13 Points
- Stanley Cup Playoffs: 12 Games, 6 Points (3 Goals, 3 Assists)
- Average Time on Ice: 13:28 per game in playoffs
Contract and Season Stats
Kapanen signed a one-year contract worth $1.3 million with the Oilers on June 30, prior to hitting the unrestricted free agency market. This season, he has recorded two assists without scoring a goal, averaging 12:17 of ice time per game.
Impact on Team Lineup
The Oilers are not only facing Kapanen’s absence but also dealing with a slow start to the season, holding a 2-3-1 record. They are currently on a long road trip and will face the Ottawa Senators soon. David Tomasek, a 20-year-old rookie, is set to take Kapanen’s place in the lineup.
- Upcoming Game: Against Ottawa Senators
- Tomasek’s Previous Performance: 57 Points in 47 Games (Färjestad BK, SHL)
- Tomasek’s Current Season: 2 Assists
The Oilers previously secured a win against the Rangers but have since suffered three consecutive regulation losses against the Islanders, Devils, and Red Wings. As they navigate this challenging start, the team will need to adjust to Kapanen’s week-to-week absence and maximize Tomasek’s contributions on the ice.
