The Edmonton Oilers might be missing a key forward for Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final versus the Florida Panthers scheduled for Monday.
According to head coach Kris Knoblauch, who spoke to reporters Sunday, forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is a game-time decision for the crucial upcoming game because of an injury that has not been disclosed.
Knoblauch also expressed his belief that the 32-year-old player would likely be in the lineup despite the current doubt. Nugent-Hopkins was absent from the team`s morning skate on Sunday, with Jeff Skinner practicing on the top line instead.
Nugent-Hopkins has been a consistent player for the Oilers during the playoffs, having played in every game so far. In 18 playoff games, his 18 points (five goals, 13 assists) place him fourth on the team in scoring, his plus-6 rating is fifth, and his three power-play goals are the third most.
He was also effective during the regular season, recording 49 points (20 goals, 29 assists) across 78 games, following his selection as the first overall draft pick in 2011.
While Nugent-Hopkins has not registered any points in the initial two games of the Cup Final series, he played every shift during Edmonton`s double overtime loss to Florida in Game 2.
Game 3 between the Oilers and Panthers, with the series tied at 1-1, is set for Monday. The game is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. MT and will be broadcast on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.
Neville Woodall