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Oilers' Kris Russell: Curiously lands on IR

There was no mention of an injury to Russell in the official recap of Tuesday's 6-4 road win over the Avalanche, but he has, in fact, been placed on IR with forward Tobias Rieder (upper body) being removed from that same list. Russell's absence spells trouble for the Oilers' netminders, as the 31-year-old has a penchant for blocking shots -- he's up to 1,701 blocks in his 12-year career.

Oilers' Kris Russell: Notches rare multi-point game

Russell scored his first goal of the season, an insurance marker at 12:14 of the third period that gave Edmonton at 5-2 lead. The 31-year-old blueliner now has six points in 18 games. Considering a third of his present-day point total came in a single game, it's advisable to avoid Russell in fantasy, with the exception being in deeper leagues.

Oilers' Kris Russell: Ready to rock in Sweden

It initially appeared that Russell wouldn't be able to return until next Thursday at the earliest, but apparently his placement on IR was retroactive to the preseason. The 31-year-old will comprise the third defensive pair on the left side of Evan Bouchard, who is making his NHL debut. Russell, a journeyman, has 1,615 career blocked shots to complement 211 points (43 goals, 168 assists) over 719 contests between five clubs.

Oilers' Kris Russell: Stashed on IR

Russell won't be eligible to return until Oct. 11 against the Bruins. Jason Garrison will fill in on the bottom pairing in the meantime.

Oilers' Kris Russell: Ruled out Wednesday

Rather than suit Russell up in this final preseason tuneup, the club will look to get the defenseman ready for Opening Night versus the Devils on Saturday. If the blueliner is unable to suit up, look for Jason Garrison or Ethan Bear to slot into the lineup.