Watch: Connor McDavid back skating as Oilers star recovers from ankle injury

Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid returned to the ice for practice on Monday. It was his first time skating since his ankle injury last week. NHL reporter Tom Gazzola shared a video of McDavid skating and mentioned that his ankle seems to be healing well.

After practice, McDavid said he felt good about his progress.

“It feels pretty good,” he said. “Not too much is limiting me on the ice. I’m happy with how it feels.”

Coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed that McDavid won’t play against the New Jersey Devils on Monday. McDavid, however, didn’t rule out a possible return by the weekend.

The 27-year-old was injured in the first period of last Monday’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. He collided with the boards after getting tripped, hurting his left ankle. Medical tests showed he might need two to three weeks to recover.

Since McDavid’s injury, the Oilers have won two straight games. Leon Draisaitl stepped up, scoring three goals and six points in those two games.

Reflecting on his recovery, McDavid shared that he’s actively working on getting better.

"When it first happened, you’re concerned it’s maybe something a little more serious, but thankfully I’ve got good news on it, and I’ve been doing every thing possible to make it feel better," McDavid said. "I’m not just sitting around, waiting for it to feel better, I’m doing a lot of different things."

His teammate Ryan Nugent-Hopkins said:

“He’s our leader and the best player in the game. We feel it when he’s out.”

The Oilers are hopeful Connor McDavid’s return will bring a positive boost to their lineup as they aim for more wins.

Connor McDavid praised Penguins captain Sidney Crosby

Connor McDavid praised Sidney Crosby, saying Crosby should be Canada’s captain at the 4 Nations Face-Off. McDavid admires Crosby’s experience and leadership, calling him the obvious choice.

“It should be Sid. It should be Sid for sure, that’s not even a question,” McDavid said on Oct. 24, per NHL.com. “It’s just how it should be. He’s Sidney Crosby and he’s been there so many times and he’s the guy. It’s not like I thought about it a lot, it’s just such a no-brainer.”

Crosby appreciated McDavid’s support and praised McDavid as a strong leader. They will play again next time when the Oilers face the Penguins, but both are looking forward to being teammates in February.

Connor McDavid admires Crosby’s long career and hopes to play himself at 37. Crosby is excited to play alongside McDavid, calling him fast and skilled.

Both were among the first named to Canada’s team, along with Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar.