This fall, the Oilers played centres Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl an average of 22 minutes per game from October through December. It was a slight increase in usage compared to the same period in the previous season. That’s a lot of hockey, which brings worry over fatigue and lower performance levels as the team chugs toward the postseason.

Edmonton Oilers star Connor McDavid got brutally honest on his three-game suspension for cross-checking Conor Garland.

McDavid’s cross-check to Garland’s face is exactly the kind of play the NHL is trying to get out of the game. Violence exists in the league, but targeting the head is punishable by suspension and McDavid will have a hearing about the incident on Monday.