Edmonton Oilers: How Darnell Nurse Can Crack the Top Four

With Andrej Sekera out for six to nine months with a leg injury, the Edmonton Oilers will rely on the pieces they already have to fill the void.

Of course, this means they will put their trust in their young defencemen, one of whom is Darnell Nurse. Though Kris Russell’s four-year extension all but ensures he will be the one stepping up to the plate to fill in for Sekera, Nurse can also compete for a top-four spot. However, can he win with Oscar Klefbom and Kris Russell also prepared to remain in the top-four.

Despite sitting out for a significant chunk of the season with a leg injury, Nurse had a solid year. In 44 games with the Oilers, he posted five goals and 11 points, and had an even plus-minus rating of zero. In addition, Nurse racked up 107 hits and 53 blocks.

Edmonton Oilers

The 6-foot-4, 220-pound is not only a physical defenceman who throws hits and sticks up for his teammates, but he has gotten better at taking care of the puck. This past year, Nurse’s Corsi was over 50 percent and his relative Corsi was positive for the first time in his NHL career. Analytically, he is improving, and it shows in his play.

However, there are steps he has to take to make it to the top-four. First off, he needs to stop turning over the puck; he had 36 giveaways through 44 games, and though he has been more cautious and aware than he has in the past, he must be more aware.

Making the Cut on the Top Four

When it comes to cracking the top-four, Nurse needs to show that he is an asset the Oilers need in that role. For instance, Russell’s shot-blocking makes him a must-have on the top-four, and Matthew Benning’s puck-moving ability showcases him as a top-four defender.

Nurse must show that his physicality is necessary on the top four and must add to his game, making himself stronger in the weaker areas. This will make him an all-around asset that the Oilers would be wise to put on the top four. In addition, he could benefit from jumping up in the play and joining the rush; he has a booming shot from the point, and can do more to contribute offensively.

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Overall, Nurse has top-four potential, but there are some areas of his game – small and big – that he can work on, and if he improves all around, he could compete for a top-four spot this season.