Nugent-Hopkins last played for the Oilers during December 31st’s contest against the New Jersey Devils. He has been dealing with a lower-body injury but did resume skating earlier this week. However, it seems possible that he has experienced a setback, as he now of course is on LTIR. However, we will have to wait for the Oilers to comment on it.
There’s also the possibility that the Oilers may have done this solely to free up some cap space for an upcoming move. This would be the case if he’s going on LTIR retroactive to December 31st. This would be far better news than the other, as he would still be close to returning.
Nugent-Hopkins has been having a solid year for Edmonton. Although he has just three goals in 30 games, he also has recorded an impressive 23 helpers. Therefore, he’s close to a point-per-game player. Although he doesn’t dominate the game offensively like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, he’s a forward they do miss immensely. This is especially true when looking at their rough stretch of play as of late.
Alas, we shall find out Edmonton’s reasoning for moving RNH to LTIR soon. Here’s to hoping it’s just for cap reasons, and that he will be able to return soon.
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