Oilers’ Ekholm out vs. Maple Leafs due to illness

The Edmonton Oilers will be without one of their top defencemen on Saturday night.

According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, Matthias Ekholm will sit out for the Oilers’ matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Ekholm, 34, also missed practice on Friday, and head coach Kris Knobluach revealed afterwards that his absence was due to illness.

In 51 games this season, Ekholm has recorded seven goals and 15 assists for 22 points. The Swede has averaged 22:45 ice time and is currently plus-19.

Catch the Oilers facing off against the Maple Leafs during Hockey Night in Canada on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+, with puck drop set for 7 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. MT.