Of course, lots of the attention in Thursday's media availability was on Rattie slotting in on the first unit, which McDavid was asked about. The Oilers Captain has liked what he's seen in Camp from his right winger but thought his performance on Tuesday was exceptional.
"I think he's skating really well," McDavid said. "I especially noticed it the other night when he was playing. I thought he was moving well and bearing down on his chances, which is really good. I like what I've seen."
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins has known Rattie for a long time, playing against one another in tournaments during their youth hockey and then lining up with him in '17-18. The left winger noted his belief in Rattie's ability to grasp the chance he has in front of him.
"I've actually got to play with and against him for a long time now," No. 93 said. "I do know what kind of player he is. When he gets an opportunity, he takes advantage of it. He's a talented player and deserves to be here."
Like McDavid, the Burnaby, BC, native was also impressed by Rattie's performance versus Vancouver.
"It was nice to see him get a couple there," he said. "A couple hard-working, hard-earned goals out there, too. Offensively, he always knows the spots to be in. He can find us in the right spots and we can find him. It's a good give and take."
THE DOCTOR IS IN
The doc is in.
After locking up a two-year pact with the Oilers on Monday, defenceman Darnell Nurse is expected to man the blueline at home on Thursday.
It will be the Hamilton, ON, native's first appearance of the pre-season. The defender said he watched his squad's last outing and thought the intensity was apparent.
