Oilers’ Ekholm clears protocol after hitting head on ice: ‘I think I got an angel watching over me’

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Mattias Ekholm confirmed on Tuesday that he has cleared concussion protocol after hitting his head on the ice during last Thursday's game. Ekholm suffered the fall following a hit from Carolina Hurricanes forward William Carrier but reported that his symptoms cleared quickly once he reached the tunnel. He resumed practice on Tuesday alongside regular top-pair partner Evan Bouchard and is expected to play Wednesday against the Calgary Flames.

Ekholm expressed relief over avoiding a serious injury, noting it could have been significantly worse. Meanwhile, center Jason Dickinson also practiced on the fourth line and expects to return Wednesday, while Colton Dach shifted to the second-line wing to help replace the injured Zach Hyman.