Dickinson's Foot Injury Casts Doubt on Oilers Opener
Jason Dickinson has re-aggravated the foot injury that disrupted his playoff run and will miss Edmonton's preseason finale against Calgary. Coach Mike Babcock said the center is unlikely to be ready for the regular-season opener against Vancouver on Sept. 29. Dickinson originally broke his foot on April 8 and later missed Games 2 and 3 of Edmonton's opening playoff series.
Dickinson first fractured his foot on April 8 in San Jose. He still appeared in Edmonton’s playoff opener versus Anaheim and scored twice, but sat out Games 2 and 3. A reporter observed him leaving a practice uncomfortably on Sept. 18, and the team later confirmed a setback.
The Oilers signed Dickinson to a five-year, $20 million extension. He was projected to center Kasperi Kapanen and Trent Frederic and kill penalties. Owen Michaels, Josh Samanski, or Frederic moving to center are options. Babcock called it likely short-term, though no return date exists.
Dickinson’s absence could affect the Oilers’ early lineup, special teams, and results, while giving depth centers a chance to audition. Teammates and coaches may need to adjust roles, and fans could see a less settled start. It may also draw attention to how pro teams manage recurring injuries and player workload, with possible consequences for Dickinson’s season and the club’s competitiveness.