Oilers head coach delivers an injury update on Leon Draisaitl

Draisaitl left the game in discomfort during the second period in Game 1 against the Canucks, but later returned for the third.

After Wednesday's game, Knoblauch blamed Draisaitl's woes on "cramping and some equipment issues." However, on Thursday, the coach confirmed that Draisaitl's injury status had shifted to "day-to-day."

While there wasn't a readily apparent injury to the star during the game, it's hard to believe cramps and equipment issues would have a prolonged impact on any player.

In his place, Sam Gagner skated in the 2nd line centre position.

Gagner skating that far in the lineup could point towards good news for the Oilers regarding Draisaitl's injury, but Edmonton may be missing two top-six forwards, Henrique and Draisaitl, for Game 2.

An essential part of the Oilers' offensive success, losing Draisaitl would be catastrophic for Edmonton. The game tilted in the Canucks' favour when he left the game, and it looks as if Connor McDavid is going to need all the help he can get.