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Kris Knoblauch Drops Crucial Update on Ryan Nugent-Hopkins Hours Ahead of Game 3

Originally posted on Hockey Latest | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jun 9, 2025 12:41 PM ET

Oilers' Ryan Nugent-Hopkins was initially listed as a game-time decision for Game 3 vs. the Panthers, and that has been made official by Kris Knoblauch.

Edmonton Oilers fans got some ugly news the day before Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final.

Head coach Kris Knoblauch told members of the media on Sunday that veteran forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, 32 years old, would be a game-time decision for Monday's pivotal game against the Florida Panthers.

Nugent-Hopkins did not skate on Sunday. Knoblauch would not comment on what might be plaguing the veteran.

Nugent-Hopkins had no apparent indication of injury in Game 2, when he logged 25:45 in a double-overtime loss, however, he was seen skating at practice earlier today.

Nugent-Hopkins officially remains a game-time decision for tonight

The verdict is now in for tonight's game, as it was announced by Kris Knoblauch that Nugent-Hopkins will remain a game-time decision.

The series has also been physically demanding, with 201 hits dished out through the first two games. Most players are struggling with some form of breakdown at this juncture.

Nugent-Hopkins has played top-line minutes with Connor McDavid for Edmonton, providing offense and defense.

In 18 playoff games, Nugent-Hopkins has tallied five goals and 13 assists, fourth on Edmonton for scoring. He was especially lethal in the Western Conference Final, with nine points in five games against Dallas.

With the series now in Florida, the Oilers need all guns blazing. Game 1 saw Edmonton rally to win the game in overtime, while Game 2 ended on a heartbreak note as the Panthers were the ones who skated away with the overtime win.

Game 3 is being played Monday night at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, with face-off around 8 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Hockey Latest and was syndicated with permission.

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