McDavid returns for Heritage Classic after 2-game absence

Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid returned to the lineup for Sunday's Heritage Classic against the Calgary Flames at Commonwealth Stadium.

McDavid missed the Oilers' last two games after suffering an upper-body injury on Oct. 21 against the Winnipeg Jets. He was initially given a recovery timeline of one-to-two weeks, which jeopardized his availability for the marquee outdoor event in Edmonton.

"I hate missing games, period," McDavid told reporters Saturday. "Whether or not this game was played indoors or outdoors, it would be something I was pushing for. I hate missing games, and sitting out two is not something that's fun. … Being available is important to me."

What caused McDavid's injury against the Jets wasn't clear, but he appeared to be favoring his side on his final shift in the third period, and he remained on the bench for all of overtime.

Edmonton lost 7-4 to the Minnesota Wild and was blanked 3-0 by the New York Rangers without its superstar in the lineup. The Oilers have struggled to stay afloat in the early goings of the 2023-24 season with a dismal 1-5-1 record that stands in stark contrast to their Stanley Cup aspirations.

"I wish I could point to one thing that it is, but not quite sure what it is. ... It's very hard to win in this league, and this has been a good reminder of how difficult and how much it takes to win," McDavid said of his team's slow start. "You don't just get to show up and expect to win."

The 26-year-old offensive dynamo has two goals and eight points in five games so far this season. McDavid has taken home the Art Ross Trophy in three consecutive campaigns as the league's leading point-getter.

McDavid also won the Hart Trophy, Ted Lindsay Award, and Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy in 2022-23 after erupting for 64 goals and 153 points in 82 contests.