What Happened
Edmonton Oilers forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will not play in the team's season opener Tuesday against the Vancouver Canucks because of a lower-body injury, coach Mike Babcock said. Nugent-Hopkins, 33, posted 20 goals and 36 assists for 56 points in 72 games last season. The Oilers begin a season with high expectations on the road in Vancouver.
Key Details
- Nugent-Hopkins is out for Tuesday's opener against Vancouver.
- The injury is a lower-body issue, per coach Mike Babcock.
- He had 20 goals and 36 assists for 56 points in 72 games last season.
- The 33-year-old forward remains a key part of Edmonton's lineup.
- The game is in Vancouver, with coverage on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ at 7 p.m. ET / 10 p.m. local.
What It Means
Nugent-Hopkins has been a durable and productive top-six forward for Edmonton, so his absence for the opener removes a reliable two-way presence from the lineup. The Oilers will need other forwards to absorb his minutes and production while he recovers. The team has not provided a timeline beyond the opener.
What's Next
Edmonton will provide further updates on Nugent-Hopkins' status as the season begins. The Oilers continue their opening schedule without him, and his availability for upcoming games is uncertain until the club offers more information.