Oilers HC Kris Knoblauch issues blunt three-word response on Mattias Ekholm's situation

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Mattias Ekholm is a game-time decision for Wednesday night's game in Minnesota against the Wild. The 34-year-old was absent from the morning skate, which has raised questions about his availability for tonight.

Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch was asked if he could elaborate on what's going on with Mattias Ekholm in his pregame media availability. Here's what he had to say.

"No I can't," Knoblauch said (1:15).

Thus, we won't know the Swedish defenseman's status until pre-game warmups to see if he's on the ice. He was relatively healthy during the 2023-24 season playing in 79 out of 82 games, and all 25 postseason games.

In 43 games played this season, Ekholm has registered 18 points (six goals, 12 assists), and a +15 rating while playing 22:51 minutes a night. The Oilers will be in a tough position should their top-pairing defenseman be sidelined for any amount of time.

Mattias Ekholm has been a perfect fit for the Edmonton Oilers

Mattias Ekholm was traded to Edmonton from the Nashville Predators in a blockbuster trade before the 2023 NHL trade deadline. The longtime Predators star had always been known as a good top-four defenseman, but his time in Edmonton has showcased how great he is.

In 143 career games with the Oilers, Ekholm has 77 points (21 goals, 56 assists) and a +87 rating. His defensive prowess has strengthened Edmonton's blue line. He's also been an excellent teammate for defenseman Evan Bouchard, whose game has improved significantly since playing with Ekholm.

Oilers fans and analysts who follow them have seen just how important Mattias Ekholm has become to the success of the team.

The Oilers fans hopes to see Ekholm in their lineup tonight when they battle the Minnesota Wild at the Xcel Energy Center. The puck drops at 8:30 p.m. EST.