Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson: Will play opener

Ekman-Larsson (knee) will take the ice Thursday for Arizona's opening night tilt with Anaheim, Sarah McLellan of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis:

Ekman-Larsson originally sustained the injury in a preseason contest, and it's good news for the Coyotes the ailment won't cost him any regular-season games. The Swede had just resumed skating Sept. 28, and it appears his recovery progressed smoothly without any setbacks. OEL only recorded 39 points last year -- his lowest full season total since 2011-12 -- and with a revamped Arizona squad, don't be surprised if he returns to his All-Star form.