Nugent-Hopkins had surgery in April to repair the torn labrum in his left shoulder. General manager Craig MacTavish said on Sunday that the club is still following the initial timeline, which was a November 1 return. If Nugent-Hopkins isn’t ready for the opener, the Oilers will need to find another centre. MacTavish did not rule the possibility of Taylor Hall moving from the wing but said it would be a coaching decision.

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will fly to Cleveland Sunday to have his shoulder examined.

RNH missed the Oilers last two games with strep throat, but he is ready to return tonight. After scoring 52 points in 62 games last season RNH has struggled this year only recording 11 points in his first 27 games.

It doesn't look like RNH will make the road-trip with the Oilers, he is suffering from strep throat.

Monitor Nugent-Hopkins status prior to tomorrow's game.

Nugent-Hopkins missed yesterday's contest because of a sore shoulder, but is fine and will play this weekend.

Nugent-Hopkins won't be out long, this is just precautionary. Edmonto expected to have him back on Saturday vs. the Red Wings.

Nugent-Hopkins moves back onto the top PP unit. Twenty of his 39 points have come with the man advantage.

Look for Nugent-Hopkins to start between Hemsky and Hall. He has 13 goals and 35 points in 40 games.

Expect him to center the second line tonight.

Remember to put Nugent-Hopkins back into your lineup. Before getting hurt, RNH scored 13 goals and 35 points in his first 40 NHL games.

Nugent-Hopkins drew in shortly after doing one of these simulations last time. At this point, it is only a matter of time until he draws in. Before getting hurt, RNH scored 13 goals and 35 points in his first 40 NHL games.

The youngster likely needs a few more practices before drawing in. Before getting hurt, RNH scored 13 goals and 35 points in his first 40 NHL games.

The youngster likely needs a few more practices before drawing in. Before getting hurt, RNH scored 13 goals and 35 points in his first 40 NHL games.

As expected, Nugent-Hopkins won't play tonight. The youngster likely needs a few more practices before drawing in. Before getting hurt, RNH scored 13 goals and 35 points in his first 40 NHL games.

Nugent-Hopkins clearly won't play tonight even though he is close. The current first overall pick scored 13 goals and 35 points in his first 40 NHL games.

Ten days into Nugent-Hopkins's 7-10 day prognosis, the rookie is still not taking contact. The current first overall pick scored 13 goals and 35 points in his first 40 NHL games.

Getting back on the ice is a good sign for the injured Nugent-Hopkins. The current first overall pick scored 13 goals and 35 points in his first 40 NHL games.

Not good news for the Oilers as their stud prospect will miss even more playing time. The current first overall pick scored 13 goals and 35 points in his first 40 NHL games.

Not good news for the Oilers as their stud prospect will miss even more playing time. The current first overall pick scored 13 goals and 35 points in his first 40 NHL games.