Oilers Quick Hits: Klingberg Debut, Bouchard Snub, Skinner Return

The Edmonton Oilers are in the news for a few reasons as they get set to take on the Detroit Red Wings on Thursday night. Veteran defenseman John Klingberg is set to make his much-anticipated debut on Saturday against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Meanwhile, Evan Bouchard has been left off Team Canada’s radar for the 4 Nations Face-Off, and goaltender Stuart Skinner has returned to the team after welcoming his second child.

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Klingberg Set to Make Oilers Debut

John Klingberg is expected to suit up for the Oilers for the first time on Saturday against the Toronto Maple Leafs. TSN’s Darren Dreger reports that unless “something changes”, the veteran defenseman will finally hit the ice in an Oilers jersey after signing with the team and getting up to speed in on-ice sessions. He released a follow-up tweet saying, “And that “something” could see Klingberg in the mix tomorrow.”

Klingberg has looked good trying to defend Connor McDavid in drills while McDavid was suspended. The captain is back, and Klingberg isn’t far behind. Games will be the real test.

Evan Bouchard Not in Team Canada Mix

Despite an impressive offensive season (that has included some ups and downs), Evan Bouchard is reportedly not being considered for Team Canada’s roster at the upcoming international tournament. According to TSN’s Chris Johnston, players like Drew Doughty, MacKenzie Weegar, and Brandon Montour are currently on Canada’s radar, leaving Bouchard on the outside looking in.

The biggest issue for Bouchard is likely that he’s not the stay-at-home, solid defender Team Canada might be looking for to replace Alex Pietrangelo. Bouchard is more of a power-play specialist, which is not what the team needs.

Stuart Skinner Returns After Birth of Son

Goaltender Stuart Skinner is back with the Oilers after missing a game to be with his wife for the birth of their second child. “Everyone’s doing well, everyone’s healthy… Another moment that’s just one of the best days ever,” Skinner shared about the arrival of his son, Darcy. With Skinner back, the Oilers will have their starter in goal on Thursday versus Detroit.

With Klingberg’s anticipated debut, Bouchard’s snub from Team Canada, and Skinner’s return, not to mention Evander Kane getting back on the ice for the first time, it shaping up to be a big weekend for the team.

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