Oilers’ Adam Henrique placed on IR, not expected back before Olympic break

The Edmonton Oilers may have snapped a two-game skid on Tuesday, but the victory did not come without a cost.

Centre Adam Henrique was placed on injured reserve on Wednesday, after leaving the night prior after just one period of play against the Nashville Predators.

The veteran forward is not expected to return until after the Olympic break.

Henrique left Tuesday’s 6-2 win after one early first-period shift in which he blocked a shot.

After the game, Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch said the 35-year-old will be out “for a little while.”

A loss for Edmonton to be sure, as Henrique had yet to miss a game this season until being placed on IR. The lineup mainstay has logged eight assists and two goals through his 43 appearances with an average ice time of 13:50 per contest.

Meanwhile, his 235 face-off wins this season rank second on the Oilers, behind only Leon Draisaitl, and his 57 blocked shots sit fifth.

The 21-16-6 Oilers return to action on Thursday, visiting the Winnipeg Jets with hopes of extending their lead atop the Pacific Division.