Core Oilers forward in line for major demotion as analyst raises shocking stat

Now 32 years old, Nuge has been an incredible two-way talent in the Oilers top 6 for the last 14 seasons. He peaked with a 104 point season back in 2022-23, but has seen his scoring take a sharp downturn since.

Oilers analyst Jason Gregor raised a shocking stat on Ryan Nugent-Hopkins that's the ultimate explanation for a demotion next season - with the top six this year, Nuge only scored 3 even strength goals.

Simply put, 3 goals over an entire season while playing with the two best players in the NHL is not good enough. The Oilers will have to begin to look at other options.

Nugent-Hopkins could still provide incredible value as one of the league's best 3rd line centers. If he could drive a third line alongside some solid Oilers depth players, it could be a deep enough lineup to overwhelm any team in the playoffs.

Not only that, but the Oilers have a number of promising new players to try in the top 6 this season. Any one of Savoie, Howard, or Mangiapane could find themselves as a solid 1st line winger with McDavid. Even Adam Henrique had positive results last season.

Nugent-Hopkins may be aging and slowing down after 959 career games, and it could be time to move him to a lesser role. It may even be better suited for his success, and could be a key feature in leading the Oilers through another playoff trial.