Edmonton Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard is a game-time decision for tonight’s matchup in opposition to the New York Rangers, as confirmed by head coach Kris Knoblauch. Bouchard’s absence from the morning skate has fueled hypothesis about potential modifications to the Oilers’ blue line. This could be injury-related, illness-related, or one thing else. That wasn’t made completely clear.
In the meantime, Darnell Nurse will return to the lineup, offering some stability amidst the uncertainty. Ryan Rishaug of TSN tweeted, “Seems like Nurse more likely to go tonight however Bouchard 50-50 in keeping with Knoblauch.”
Bouchard’s 2024-25 season has been a rollercoaster. Following a breakout marketing campaign final 12 months, the 24-year-old has showcased moments of brilliance however has additionally been suffering from pricey defensive lapses and offensive miscues. The struggles haven’t gone unnoticed, with Oilers assistant coach Paul Coffey reportedly pissed off by Bouchard’s lack of ability to get his pictures via visitors—an issue that even Bouchard himself acknowledged.
“I stated, what’s occurring with the shin pad murderer? You possibly can’t appear to get a shot via,” Sportsnet’s Louie DeBrusk shared, recounting a dialog with Bouchard. “He seems to be at me and he goes, if I hit one other shin pad, I believe [Coffey] is gonna kill me.”
Bouchard lacking in motion seemingly doesn’t have something to do with Coffey getting his arms on the blueliner and the hope is that this isn’t something critical. The truth that Bouchard would possibly be capable to play is a optimistic signal that no matter is occurring is minor.
Different Oilers Harm Information
With forwards Zach Hyman and Viktor Arvidsson nonetheless out, Edmonton will want their protection to step up. Whether or not Bouchard is within the lineup or not, tonight’s sport provides a vital alternative for the Oilers to search out consistency after an unpleasant loss to the Minnesota Wild the place the Oilers might need put up considered one of their worst performances of the season.
Stuart Skinner will get the beginning versus the Rangers. He’s been struggling of late and wishes a turnaround sport after letting in 5 targets versus the Wild. In the meantime, Igor Shesterkin appeared to be the starter, however took a excessive shot in follow and left the ice. Jonathan Fast could be going now for the Rangers.
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