It sounds like the Edmonton Oilers will be putting Zack Kassian back into the lineup Wednesday as the team tries to win back a couple points from the Calgary Flames. While not 100% confirmed, Kassian was activated off of Injured Reserve and he’ll be a welcome addition back to the lineup if he’s able to go. The Oilers are hoping to reverse the fortunes of a tough 4-3 loss to Calgary on Monday.
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It was reported earlier in the day that Kassian, Tyson Barrie, and Dominik Kahun were all going to be game-time decisions. If Barrie can’t go, Darnell Nurse will play on the top power play unit and Evan Bouchard will come into the lineup. If Barrie can go, it looks like Bouchard will sit. Head coach Dave Tippett said, “[Darnell] Nurse will be the first option as he has played there the most.”
One thing we do know is that Kyle Turris and Khaira are not available. Khaira is out after badly losing a fight to Brett Ritchie. James Neal and Patrick Russell were assigned to the taxi squad on Wednesday.
The Oilers need a bounce-back effort. Connor McDavid said, “We’re playing playoff hockey here” and talked about not making the mistakes the team has been making lately. Tippett agreed and noted that this will be a tight, competitive game.
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It also appears third-string goaltender Alex Stalock is close to joining the team. Coach Tippett noted this morning that he expects Stalock to be able to join the main group for practices starting tomorrow. TBD on how soon he might see game action.
Mike Smith will start in goal. He is currently 9-3 on the season and had a three-game winning streak snapped on Monday.
Next: Edmonton Oilers News & Rumors: Barrie, Khaira, Smith, More
