As the Edmonton Oilers get set to try and win another game against the Montreal Canadiens on Wednesday night, there are some changes to the roster, developments on the injury front and a few key items worth nothing. Among them, the team is getting Ryan Nugent-Hopkins back, James Neal has been activated from the taxi squad and Jujhar Khaira will miss some time.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins Back In
The Oilers have activated Nugent-Hopkins off the Injured Reserve for tonight’s game. He took part in practice with the regular roster but didn’t do the conditioning drills, likely to keep him fresh. It will be good to have him back now that the Oilers are a bit lighter at center, but it will be interesting to see where he’ll slot in.
“He was feeling good this morning, so looks like he’s a go,” head coach Dave Tippett confirmed. He’ll certainly be used on the penalty kill with Khaira out and he’ll likely slot back in on the Oilers top-unit power play. “He’s got lots to offer about how we want to play,” Tippett said. “His game is very intelligent. He touches a lot of parts of the game because of that intelligence.”
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Dmitry Kulikov Likely Not Ready Yet
Newly-acquired defenceman Dmitry Kulikov also took part in the skate on Wednesday, but is not expected to be in the lineup. The Oilers likely want to get him up to speed on the systems and style of play. He could make his debut next Monday against the Winnipeg Jets.
Where he slots in and who comes out will be interesting to see. The Oilers have done a decent job of shutting teams down. Caleb Jones may be the odd man out in this equation.
James Neal Gets The Call
Neal is in, having been activated off the taxi squad. That now makes two of the four Oilers taxi squad recalls done. Joakim Nygard was the other and the decision will likely be heavily debated by Oilers fans considering players like Evan Bouchard and Tyler Ennis could have been called instead.
Khaira Will Miss Some Time
Tippett noted that Khaira was in good spirits, but it’s likely he’ll miss some time. Many are wondering if the Oilers suggest he shut things down for the season. Two concussions in short order may mean that the Oilers medical staff hesitate clearing him for further action.
Another Playoff Atmosphere?
Will these game be as nasty and physical as Monday’s contest? If so, it will be interesting to see, not only how the Oilers respond, but if they initiate or try to get an early lead. A few quick strikes and the Canadiens might not want to risk taking penalties.
Mike Smith is likely to get the net again and our early prediction is that Zack Kassian is much more noticeable out on the ice tonight. He’ll have had a day off to prepare himself for a more physical game where he can really be a difference-maker.
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