Worrying Announcement for McDavid and the Oilers Drops Ahead of Crucial Game 3

It all started today when reporters noted that forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins was absent from the Oilers' practice.

That alone was concerning, but everyone was waiting to hear what head coach Kris Knoblauch would say on the matter.. and let's just say, he really wasn't reassuring.

During a press conference, appearing somewhat discouraged, Knoblauch said that Nugent-Hopkins is truly at risk of being sidelined.

We're talking about the Oilers' third-best forward, a player who's registered 18 points in 18 games during the 2025 playoffs.

Kris Knoblauch, when asked about RNH's availability for Game 3, said it would be a "game-time decision," which shows the forward is genuinely bothered by something.

For over four years now, McDavid's loyal linemates have been Zach Hyman and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins.

Hyman's playoffs (injury) are already over, and now Nugent-Hopkins is dealing with an issue and could miss time as well.

That would leave McDavid without both of his main wingers - far from an ideal situation for number 97.

At 32 years old, Nugent-Hopkins has tallied 18 points in 18 games during this year's playoffs, after posting 22 points in 25 games during the 2024 postseason.

Yes, he's a crucial piece for Kris Knoblauch's team.

And you - considering all of this and after watching the first two games of the series - what's your prediction for the Stanley Cup Final, which is now essentially a best-of-five series?