Connor McDavid makes his feelings known after $38,500,000 Oilers forward scores twice in return

Connor McDavid praised Zach Hyman after the forward scored twice in the Edmonton Oilers' 6-3 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday. Hyman missed five games due to an undisclosed injury.

"Missing any time is not easy to come back so really impressive. Credit to our staff. I always say this," McDavid said. "But we got the best medical staff here in Edmonton, and credit to him for working and making sure he's ready to roll."

Hyman’s return was a big boost for the Oilers. He scored twice on five shots and finished with a plus-3 rating. It was his first multi-goal game of the season and his first goal since November 6.

Hyman scored in the first and second periods. His first goal came from a McDavid assist to tie the game at 1-1. He added another goal on a wrist shot after a play with Connor McDavid and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins.

"I thought he was sharp, good around the net, ready for it," McDavid added. "The chances he did have, he got good wood on it and made a shot. That's what he does."

Zach Hyman, 32, is signed to a seven-year, $38.5 million contract, which runs through the 2027-28 season. While a repeat of his strong 2023-24 season with 54 goals is unlikely, Hyman’s offense is key for the Oilers going forward.

Connor McDavid and Zach Hyman talks about the game

Connor McDavid had four assists in the game. Leon Draisaitl also scored two goals, while Mattias Ekholm scored on the power play. The Oilers controlled the game, despite Columbus cutting the lead to 4-2 and 5-3.

Talking about the game and Zach Hyman's return McDavid detailed the importance of the forward's return to the lineup. As the Oilers continue their season, Hyman’s offense will be vital to their success.

“It was nice to get ‘Hysey’ back,” McDavid said per NHL.com, "It was nice to create some chances. I thought ‘Nuge’ (Ryan Nugent-Hopkins) played well, as well. When you’ve got three guys playing well, it’s fun out there."

Zach Hyman has five goals and five assists in 21 games this season.

“Being back is the best. To get a win and being able to contribute feels good,” said Hyman, per NHL.com, “I think it was a good reset. I obviously didn’t have the greatest start. It was a good first game back.

The Edmonton Oilers improved to 14-10-2. They are fifth in the Pacific Division with 30 points. Captain Connor McDavid has 12 goals so far.