The Edmonton Oilers are continuing to handle forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins` injury with caution.
The versatile player was absent from the team`s practice on Tuesday. The Oilers described his day off as a “maintenance day.”
Despite dealing with an undisclosed injury, which made him a game-time decision for Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final, Nugent-Hopkins ultimately suited up. He logged 15 minutes and 34 seconds of ice time in the game, recording one shot on goal.
With fellow forward Zach Hyman already sidelined, the potential unavailability of a player like Nugent-Hopkins would significantly strain the team`s offensive depth. If Nugent-Hopkins is unable to play in Game 4, Jeff Skinner is anticipated to move up to the top line, playing alongside Connor McDavid and Corey Perry.
Addressing reporters before Game 3, coach Kris Knoblauch highlighted the importance of having healthy centers.
“Yeah, we don`t have as much versatility if we are missing a centreman,” Knoblauch said. “Centremen are so important just to move around, and we don`t have a lot of centermen on our roster.”
Throughout the current playoff run, Nugent-Hopkins has been a valuable contributor for the Oilers, playing significant minutes, including on the penalty kill. His ability to play both center and wing provides crucial flexibility. Should Edmonton choose to play McDavid and Leon Draisaitl together later in a game when trailing, Nugent-Hopkins is capable of shifting from the wing to fill the second-line center position.
The 32-year-old has maintained solid offensive production in the playoffs, scoring five goals and tallying 18 points across 19 games this season. In the Oilers` run to the Cup Final last season, he registered seven goals and 22 points.
The Panthers currently hold a 2-1 series advantage in the Stanley Cup Final, following their decisive 6-1 victory over the Oilers in Game 3. Game 4 is scheduled for Thursday.