Edmonton Oilers defenseman possibly out for game 3 after missing practice
In a concerning development for the Edmonton Oilers, defenseman Darnell Nurse appears doubtful for Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final following his absence from team practice.
Nurse, the Oilers' highest-paid defenseman with an annual salary of $9.25 million, has experienced a challenging playoff series, managing only three assists with a concerning -15 rating.
The incident that cast doubt on his availability occurred during Game 2, when Nurse sustained an injury after taking a heavy hit from a forechecking Panthers player.
This collision in the corner seemed to severely affect him, prompting Nurse to exit the game and visibly express his frustration by smashing his stick in the hallway.
Despite his attempt to return, sitting on the bench for the game's remainder, Nurse managed only two brief shifts, totaling a mere 4:20 of ice time.
This limited participation highlights the severity of his condition, underscoring that his reduced time on the ice was due to injury, not a strategic decision by the coaching staff. More details can be found in the original report on Sideline Recaps:
In Nurse's potential absence, the responsibility will likely shift to Cody Ceci, who will need to step up and fill the significant void left by Nurse.
The Oilers practiced adjustments also included the promotion of Ryan McLeod to the second line, joining forces with Draisaitl and Dylan Holloway, while Warren Foegele moved down to the fourth line. For more insights into these line changes, visit:
Another point of concern for the Oilers is the status of Evander Kane, who also missed practice. However, unlike Nurse, Kane's absence is not unusual, as he has been contending with multiple injuries throughout the playoffs but is expected to play in Game 3.
The Oilers' coaching staff, led by Knoblauch, has yet to provide an official update on Nurse's condition. The uncertainty surrounding his participation spells potential trouble for the Oilers, as Nurse's defensive prowess and experience are crucial for the team, especially in the high-stakes environment of the Stanley Cup Final.
As the Oilers prepare for Game 3, the team and its fans await further updates on Nurse's status, hoping for positive news that could bolster their defense against a formidable Panthers lineup.
| POLL | ||
Is Darnell Nurse, of the Oilers, going to play in Game 3? | ||
| Yes, he'll power through an injury | 73 | 36 % |
| No, he was clearly too injured | 56 | 27.6 % |
| Don't want him anyway | 60 | 29.6 % |
| See Results | 14 | 6.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
