Ryan Nugent-Hopkins status updated by Oilers coach before Game 3 of Stanley Cup Final

Without Nugent-Hopkins, veteran forward Jeff Skinner took the first line assignment in his place - and the Oilers also shook up their defence pairs significantly.

Speaking to the media after practice today, Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch said that Nugent-Hopkins will be a game time decision, but is more likely to play than not.

At this time of year, it's normal for the coach to give absolutely zero specifics to a player's health. Nuge could be dealing with an injury, or an illness that may have been in the Oilers locker room recently. For now, it's positive news that Knoblauch is at least optimistic on his availability.

Losing Nugent-Hopkins would be a devastating blow for the Edmonton Oilers. A core player of this team from the decade of darkness, Nuge has evolved into an extremely reliable two-way player and an essential locker room leader.

If the Oilers were to play any amount of games missing both Zach Hyman and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, they'd be severely testing their depth against a great Panthers team.

Jeff Skinner would be the next man up if Nuge can't play in Game 3, and he's a solid player to bring in for depth - but he doesn't have the defensive capabilities of Nuge.

Hopefully he'll be ready to play in Game 3, and if not, the rest of the Oilers are ready for the challenge with a depleted lineup.