Edmonton Oilers enter training camp with question marks around Frederik Andersen after the veteran netminder was injured during offseason training. The team announced Andersen’s injury but did not disclose its severity and said he is not expected to be ready for the start of camp.After helping the Carolina Hurricanes win the Stanley Cup, Andersen signed a one-year, $2.8 million deal with the Edmonton Oilers. His loss is a big one because Edmonton brought him in to provide experience and stability to a goaltending position that was a struggle last season.
How will Frederik Andersen’s injury affect Edmonton Oilers NHL goaltending plans?
The Edmonton Oilers could be forced to lean more on their backup options in goal while they await an update on Frederik Andersen’s availability due to injury.The Edmonton Oilers bolstered a key area of weakness by signing Frederik Andersen. The Danish goalie, 36, played in the NHL for 13 seasons with the Anaheim Ducks, Toronto Maple Leafs and Carolina Hurricanes.In the 2025-26 regular season, Andersen had a.874 save percentage and a 3.05 goals-against average in 35 starts for the Carolina Hurricanes. His numbers weren’t spectacular, but he was noticeably better in the playoffs.During the Hurricanes’ run to the Stanley Cup, Andersen was 13-2 with a 1.89 goals-against average.910 save percentage and three shutouts in 16 games. That playoff experience was a big reason Edmonton liked him.
What is known about Frederik Andersen’s injury?
The Edmonton Oilers did not divulge the type of injury Frederik Andersen sustained in the offseason or how serious it is. The team has also not set a timetable for his return.That uncertainty makes his status particularly important with training camp approaching. Edmonton said another update will come when appropriate, leaving the team and its fans with no clear indication whether Andersen might be back early in the season.With Andersen out of training camp, the expectation is that goalies Tristan Jarry and Devon Levi will get a few extra looks from the Edmonton Oilers.Andersen is out of action, so this could be an opportunity for Jarry to take on a bigger role. Meanwhile, Levi would get valuable NHL exposure if Edmonton handles its crease well through camp and the preseason.The vacancy also provides the organization an opportunity to test its depth before making any further decisions.
Why does Andersen’s absence matter for the NHL season?
Timing is particularly important as Edmonton was already looking to get better in net. The Oilers ended last season with a .883 team save percentage, which was among the worst in the NHL.Edmonton’s training camp opens Sept. 16, and the Oilers face the Winnipeg Jets in their first pre-season game on Sept. 19. The Oilers open the regular season on September 29 against the Vancouver Canucks.If Andersen is healthy enough to stay on the sideline into the regular season, Edmonton could be under immediate pressure to find a reliable answer in net. His eventual return could be one of the key storylines early in the season for the Oilers.