McDavid to make preseason debut

Connor McDavid is ready for game action.

The Edmonton Oilers superstar confirmed after Tuesday's morning skate that he'll play in this evening's exhibition contest against the Arizona Coyotes.

McDavid lined up between Leon Draisaitl and Zack Kassian on the Oilers' top line during the morning session.

The 22-year-old has skated throughout the preseason, but he had yet to appear in a game. He tore his PCL in the Oilers' 2018-19 season finale, avoided surgery, and was given a six-month recovery timetable.

McDavid's status for the 2019-20 season opener was originally in doubt, but his progress throughout training camp led Edmonton general manager Ken Holland to say he was "optimistic" about the team's captain being ready for opening night.

Including Tuesday's clash with the Coyotes, the Oilers have three preseason games remaining. Edmonton will then open its regular season against the Vancouver Canucks on Oct. 2.