It has been confirmed by Oilers' coach Dave Tippett, that Zack Kassian and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will return to the lineup on Sunday night, when the Oilers take on the Buffalo Sabres.
Nugent-Hopkins returns after missing the past six games due to a hand injury that he suffered on Nov.23 against the Vegas Golden Knights. Edmonton went 3-3 during his absence. He will center the second line, between James Neal and Jujhar Khaira, allowing Leon Draisaitl to return to the first line with Connor McDavid. Nugent-Hopkins has 5 goals and 16 points in 25 games this season.
Kassian is also making his return to the lineup, after missing the past three games with a suspected back injury. He will be reunited with Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid on the Oilers' top line. Kassian has fit in well with Draisaitl and McDavid this season. With 9 goals and 19 points in 29 games, he is on pace to smash his previous career highs in goals (15) and points (29).
The return Kassian and RNH should provide a huge boost to the Oilers, who have cooled down a bit recently. Edmonton is 5-4-1 in their last 10 and they currently sit 1 point ahead of the Arizona Coyotes for first place in the Pacific Division.
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