The Edmonton Oilers might have to face Game 3 without one of their key players. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins could be sidelined with an injury when they hit the ice in Florida on Monday.
Head coach Kris Knoblauch says it’ll be a game-time decision after Nugent-Hopkins missed Sunday’s practice.
What’s weird is that Nugent-Hopkins played every minute of Game 2’s double-overtime heartbreaker. He hasn’t missed a single game this season except for a brief illness.
The 32-year-old forward’s been everywhere this season, playing alongside Connor McDavid and Corey Perry, while also filling in as second-line center when Leon Draisaitl needs a break.
Something seemed off in Game 2 though. When he moved to center between Evander Kane and Kasperi Kapanen, Kane had to take the faceoffs instead of Nugent-Hopkins. That’s got people wondering if he’s dealing with an upper-body injury.
He’s been on fire in the playoffs, putting up 18 points in as many games – though he’s gone quiet the last three.
The Western Conference Finals were his time to shine. He absolutely lit up the Dallas Stars, scoring 9 points in just four games.
This couldn’t come at a worse time for Edmonton. They’re already missing Zach Hyman, who’s out for the season with a wrist injury. Now they might have to dig even deeper into their bench against the defending champs.
If Nugent-Hopkins can’t go, Jeff Skinner looks ready to step in. He’s only played twice these playoffs, but he’s made them count with a goal and an assist. Not bad for a guy playing in his first-ever postseason after nearly 1,100 regular season games.
The series is tied 1-1, and Game 3 could be the turning point. The Oilers are hoping their veteran forward can suit up, but they’ll have to wait until game time to know for sure.
