Oilers may dress fan favourite player for first time this playoffs in game 4

Sam Gagner was a full participant in practice this morning after spending most of the playoffs skating with the Oilers Black Aces. It could very well be an indication that the veteran Oilers legend could play his first playoff game of the season in game 4. Still, he skated on a fifth line involving Sam Carrick, which means he still may not get in.

Plenty of Oilers fans have called out for Gagner to get a look in this series, and even throughout the playoffs. Gagner only played 28 games this season, scoring 5 goals and 5 assists, but had his role eliminated when the Oilers signed Corey Perry.

The 34 year old Gagner is reportedly hoping to return to the NHL next season, but it may not be with the Oilers. Unable to crack the playoff lineup thus far, it wouldn't make sense to re-sign him if he wants to play. Saturday night could be a farewell to an Edmonton legend, if he does play again. Still, hopefully Gagner retires as an Oiler.

He hasn't played in an extended period, but Gagner could bring some depth scoring and a clutch factor, something the Oilers aren't getting from the bottom six in this series. Not to mention, he's a leader and fan favourite that the team can rally around.

Evander Kane and Darnell Nurse both missed practice again today, and with Kane scratched for game three it may be unlikely we'll see him in game four too. Darnell Nurse is clearly injured and not playing up to standard, but he'll likely be playing game 4.

The Oilers will need a miracle comeback, but all hope isn't lost yet. This team pulled themselves out of near last place this season, and they could still make a series out of this Cup Final. Saturday night in Edmonton is truly a must win for the Oilers.

Source: Tom Gazzola

Sam Gagner participant at practice