Darnell Nurse has been a fixture on the Oilers’ blue line for years, typically drawing criticism for his playmaking, consistency, and, most notably, his high-priced contract that ranks among the many league’s priciest for defensemen. Nevertheless, in considered one of his standout performances this season, Nurse confirmed he could be the sort of defenseman the Oilers signed once they provided him a long-term profitable deal.
On Thursday evening, in a sport that noticed Connor McDavid deservedly earn the primary, second, and third star for his a thousandth level, Nurse recorded three factors in a historic sport in opposition to the Nashville Predators, signaling a possible bounce-back marketing campaign.
The expectations surrounding Nurse’s eight-year, $9.25 million contract amplify each mistake he makes. But, when he performs nicely, he typically doesn’t obtain the credit score he deserves. Whereas McDavid’s unbelievable efficiency rightly stole the highlight, — and Nurse would by no means need to steal the thunder from considered one of his greatest pals — Nurse’s three-point effort nonetheless warrants recognition. Though a lot of the criticism directed at him has been honest, the relentless scrutiny has clearly impacted Nurse’s confidence, inflicting him to play a hesitant fashion of hockey. This cautious method has, at instances, resulted in expensive errors, additional eroding his self-assurance and making a vicious cycle of doubt.
Heading into the brand new season, Nurse was decided to vary the narrative surrounding his efficiency. Regardless of a rocky begin, his arduous work is already paying off. He has regained his confidence, trying extra just like the defenseman worthy of his $9.25 million annual wage. His decision-making has improved, with cleaner breakouts and a greater sense of when to pinch the blue line to keep up puck possession. Notably, Nurse has additionally achieved a a lot better job limiting high-danger possibilities in opposition to, averaging simply 1.23 per sport alongside Troy Stecher. For comparability, final season, Nurse and Cody Ceci allowed 2.48 high-danger possibilities per sport.
Nurse’s Unforgettable Evening In opposition to Nashville
Nurse’s refined sport shined in Thursday’s time beyond regulation win in opposition to the Predators. His two targets, considered one of which was the overtime-winning purpose, and an help on McDavid’s a thousandth profession NHL level confirmed the range in his sport — a pleasant breakout go, a snipe from a tricky angle, and leaping into the play offensively and getting misplaced on the wing. When Nurse is taking part in unfastened and as much as his requirements, he’s unbelievably efficient.
Moreover, Nurse holds the franchise file for most overtime-winning targets by a defenseman, with six to his identify. But it surely wasn’t simply Nurse’s offensive contributions that shined. Defensively, he delivered a exceptional efficiency, with key shot blocks and a powerful displaying on the penalty kill. All aspects of Nurse’s sport exude confidence, a key consider Nurse’s elevated play.
With a cleaner sport and renewed confidence, Nurse is rediscovering his type and silencing critics. This season, his stage of play seems to raise each time he hits the ice. By refining all elements of his sport, Nurse has develop into a extra well-rounded participant, making a vital affect for the Oilers each defensively and offensively.
Subsequent: Flyers Maintain Conferences to Keep away from Michkov Frustration with Tortorella
