The Edmonton Oilers are making some roster adjustments as they prepare to face the St. Louis Blues.
With Ryan Nugent-Hopkins absent due to a personal matter, the Oilers have called up Max Jones from the Bakersfield Condors. This move also coincides with placing Colton Dach on long-term injured reserve.
Max Jones, who’s been making waves with the Condors by netting 10 goals and tallying 18 points, is stepping up to fill the gap left by Nugent-Hopkins. Jones has already had a taste of NHL action this season, appearing in eight games with the Oilers, contributing a goal and an assist.
His last appearance was against the Boston Bruins on December 31. Since being acquired from the Bruins in March 2025, Jones has suited up for the Oilers 27 times.
As for Nugent-Hopkins, his absence is a significant one. The Oilers’ head coach, Kris Knoblauch, confirmed that Nugent-Hopkins is heading back to Edmonton, which means more line shuffling is in store. Knoblauch has been navigating through lineup changes due to recent injuries, and this latest development adds another layer to the challenge.
Nugent-Hopkins has been having an impressive season, with 17 goals and 50 points in 57 games. He’s already outpaced his assist and point totals from last year, despite playing fewer games. His current points-per-game rate of .88 is the third-best of his career, trailing only his standout 2022-23 season and the 2019-20 campaign.
On the injury front, Colton Dach had to exit early during a game against the Colorado Avalanche after just three shifts. He, along with Ty Emberson, has returned to Edmonton for further evaluation. The Oilers will need to adapt quickly as they face the Blues without some key players.