Insider provides encouraging update on Darnell Nurse

The Edmonton Oilers got together for their pre-game skate this morning, and Brendan Escott has just reported that the team feels "optimistic" about Darnell Nurse returning to the lineup.

During last Saturday's game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, Darnell Nurse was retrieving the puck in what appeared to be a routine play, but Toronto Maple Leafs enforcer came charging around the corner, deliberately clipping Darnell Nurse in the face.

Darnell Nurse unfortunately suffered substantial swelling in his eye, and Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch reported that he would miss 5-10 games.

In other news, Oilers insider Tony Brar reported that blue-liner Evan Bouchard has been listed 50/50 for tonights game, missing morning practice.

Only 11 members of the team partook in yesterday's "light" practice session, with Evan Bouchard also absent.

According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, The Oilers will also be missing forwards Zach Hyman and Victor Arvidsson tonight with injury. Hyman sustained an injury against the Ottawa Senators, and Arvidsson's been day-to-day for over a week now.

The New York Rangers are off a hot start to the season, posting a 12-5-1 record.

The Edmonton Oilers will look to bounce-back after suffering a disappointing 5-3 loss against the Minnesota Wild.

Although Evan Bouchard's chances of suiting up tonight are looking grim, having Darnell Nurse potentially back in the lineup comes as welcome news for the team.