Edmonton Oilers head coach Dave Tippett told reporters on Tuedsay that defenseman Mike Green (knee) and winger Joakim Nygard (upper body) are ready to go if the NHL season resumes. Whether the NHL re-starts the regular season or jumps right into the playoffs,the Oilers will have a healty roster ready to go as both Green and Nygard have recovered from their respective injuries.
Green Provides Blue Line Depth
Green was an unexpected acquisition for the Oilers. GM Ken Holland noted that he believed the team had earned additional help in certain areas because of how they played. The Detroit Red Wings decided to move Green and retain a good chunk of his salary making him an affordable pick-up for the Oilers. Unfortunately, injury struck early.
Expected to be a power play and depth guy for the Oilers on their blue line, Green didn’t get many minutes in his first game with his new team. In his second game, he got hurt.
Nyrard’s Season Paused Early
Before the NHL went on pause, Nygard’s season was essentially shut down after he blocked a shot that broke his hand. A depth forward with extra with speed who just seemed to be finding his game, he’d scored nine points in 33 games.
He will be a welcome addition to the team as they try to find the right mix of forwards should the season kick back in at some point. For Nygard, every opportunity to produce will be welcome as he’s got one more season at $875k on the books and will be fighting for employment in the NHL
Tippett Also Comments On Newly Acquired Players
Tippett said he was disappointed with the injuries the team suffered and that the season was shut down just as players were starting to find their rhythm. Tippett still doesn’t know exactly what he’s got and his team wasn’t able to get in sync.
Tippett also commented on Andreas Athanasiou and said he didn’t get the luxury of getting comfortable after being traded for the first time in his career.
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