Ryan Nugent-Hopkins to miss Edmonton Oilers season opener

Veteran centre Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will miss the Edmonton Oilers’ season opener against the Vancouver Canucks due to a lower-body injury sustained during practice. Head coach Mike Babcock indicated that the injury is expected to sideline the veteran for approximately two weeks.

Nugent-Hopkins, who is entering his 16th season with the team, was expected to anchor the Oilers’ second line. His absence may require stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl to play at centre on separate lines.

The Oilers are facing several other roster challenges heading into the 2026-27 season. Goaltender Frederik Andersen is expected to be out until December with a knee injury, and Matt Savoie is projected to miss roughly eight weeks. Tristan Jarry is set to start in goal for the opener.