Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (foot) has been ruled out from participating with Canada in the 2015 World Ice Hockey Championships in May.

Nugent-Hopkins (foot) has been ruled out from participating with Canada in the 2015 World Ice Hockey Championships in May.

Analysis:

The 22-year-old was optimistic earlier in the week that his fractured foot would heal up in time to have him available for the tournament, but after consulting with the Edmonton medical staff, he decided it was in his best interest to sit out. That certainly has to come as a relief to the Oilers' brass, who surely didn't want Nugent-Hopkins suffering a setback during the showcase that would impact his availability for training camp. With a full offseason to recover, Nugent-Hopkins should return to the team at full health next fall.