Ryan Nugent-Hopkins can unpack his bags and look for a place to live in Edmonton.
The Oilers sent out a tweet on Friday saying the first overall pick in June's draft will not be returning to the junior ranks.
"It's official, fans! Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is going to remain in an Oilers uniform and not return to junior, " read the tweet.
The Red Deer Rebels product is scheduled to play his tenth game of the season on Friday. After he plays his tenth game, the first year of his entry-level contract kicks in.
Nugent-Hopkins is tied with linemate Jordan Eberle for the team lead in scoring with five goals and four assists in nine games. The third member of the Oilers' top line is 2010 first overall pick, Taylor Hall and Nugent-Hopkins says he has learned a lot from the young leaders.
"Taylor and Jordan have been amazing mentors for me," said Nugent-Hopkins. "I'm thrilled that I get to keep playing with those guys."
Oilers general manager Steve Tambellini has been impressed with how the 18-year-old has dealt with the pressures of playing in the NHL thus far.
"He knows the spotlight has been on him and will continue to be, but he went out there and did what he's always done," said Tambellini.
Upon hearing the news, Oilers defenceman Ryan Whitney went on twitter to share his own lack of surprise.
"The Nuge is staying in NHL huh? What a shocker. In other news, sky is blue, grass is green and it's going to be cold in Edmonton in January," tweeted Whitney.
In other news, defenceman Jeff Petry was recalled from the Oklahoma City Barons of the American Hockey League on Friday.
