Darnell Nurse is set to return soon after he was taken out of action thanks to a huge hit from Ryan Reaves on Nov. 16. In the few games he missed, the Edmonton Oilers may have learned they aren't equipped to handle someone of his importance going down.

The Oilers are anticipating defenseman Darnell Nurse, who has been absent after Ryan Reaves' dirty headshot, to play on Saturday night.

The Oilers defenceman was helped off the ice vs. the Maple Leafs after taking a hit to the head from Ryan Reaves.

The Edmonton Oilers could be without one of their top defenders when they take on the New York Rangers at Rogers Place. Head coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed after Saturday’s morning skate that Evan Bouchard is a game-time decision with a 50-50 chance of playing.