Edmonton Oilers Goaltender Has Setback With Injury

Edmonton Oilers goaltender Mike Smith was inching closer to returning from his injury, but now has suffered a setback. As a result of this, the veteran is back in Edmonton for further evaluation.

"It is a concern for sure. It looks like he takes some steps ahead, but then he takes another step back. They will do more imaging of it today (back in Edmonton)." Tippett on Mike Smith injury issue. He has returned to Edmonton. #Oilers
— Jason Gregor (@JasonGregor) November 11, 2021

Smith has not played since October 19th against the Anaheim Ducks. Although he is their number one goalie, Mikko Koskinen has been holding down the fort quite well during his absence. Koskinen currently has a 7-1-0 record and .920 SV%. The Oilers are also first in the Pacific Division with a 9-2-0 record.

However, Smith now being injured for a longer period of time is not ideal at all. Koskinen and Stuart Skinner are being left with a major task of trying to keep the Oilers at the top of the league. Eventually, the pair may run into trouble, especially when looking at Koskinen's struggles last season. If that occurs, it would not be surprising to see Edmonton pursue another goalie via trade.

Alas, we will have to wait and see what comes next with Smith's injury. Hopefully the setback is minor and his expected recovery time isn't too much longer.