Andrej Sekera is expected to make his season debut Thursday night when the Edmonton Oilers host the St. Louis Blues.
“I feel as good as I need to feel to be playing at this level,” Sekera said. “I’m ready to roll.”
Sekera, 31, suffered a torn ACL on May 5 in a playoff game against the Anaheim Ducks.
“He’s great. He communicates well. He’s a smart, intelligent player. He’s always in the right spots,” said defenceman Kris Russell, who was paired with Sekera most of last season.
Sekera was with Matt Benning at practice on Wednesday, sliding into the spot vacated by Oscar Klefbom, who has been placed on injured reserve.
Nathan Walker, who the Oilers placed on waivers on Tuesday, was claimed by the Washington Capitals.