Robbery on ice? Mike Commodore says Darnell Nurse isn't worth even half his $74M contract
Mike Commodore, a former NHL player, harshly criticized Darnell Nurse's performance, claiming he's overpaid at $9.25 million annually. Despite a solid regular season, Nurse's playoff instabilities and hefty contract limit the Oilers' roster flexibility.
While the team considered trading him, Nurse articulates no interest in waiving his no-movement clause to leave Edmonton.
Mike Commodore blasts Darnell Nurse's contract and playoff flops
The hockey world is bustling about Darnell Nurse, a defenseman for the Edmonton Oilers, and his hefty contract. It seems some influential voices, specifically former NHL player Mike Commodore, believe Nurse's performance doesn't quite match up to his $9.25 million annual salary.
Nurse has faced criticism for his showing in crucial playoff games, despite putting up respectable numbers in the regular season.
This contrast between his on-ice contribution in high-stakes moments and his substantial pay package has created a difficult situation for the Oilers.
— OilersNation (@OilersNation)
Many observers are alluding that this significant financial commitment to Nurse is tying the team's hands, making it tough to manage and build a more flexible roster. There's been talk that the Oilers might be open to exploring trade options for Nurse this summer. However, the plot thickens because Nurse himself is unenthusiastic packing his bags.
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The Oilers purportedly approached several players with no-trade clauses, gently inspecting their willingness to consider a move. While some, like Viktor Arvidsson, were open to a change of scenery and subsequently traded, Nurse, along with Adam Henrique, appears resolute in staying put.
They value their roles on a team that's genuinely competitive and has a legitimate shot at championship glory, choosing to exercise their contractual rights.
As Mike Commodore put it, "$4M is too high, in my opinion. He's worth $1.5-2M at most. That said, he was better after Game 3 against Vegas… if he stays on his feet, he's worth $1.5M… if he reverts to flopping, he's EIHL at best." This sentiment underscores the ongoing debate about his true value.
As Elliotte Friedman shared, "I think basically Edmonton went to a check with all their guys who had no trade clauses, who they would want to move and say, 'Okay, how many of you are willing to go places?' And (Viktor) Arvidson said he was, so he went."
He further clarified, "But, you know, Nurse, I don't think he wants to go anywhere. Henrique, I don't think he wants to go anywhere. So that's kind of where it ended up. They made it clear they liked being part of something where they can win, and they decided to stay, as is their right."
Also Read:
NHL slammed for broken system as $275M in cap space sits unused amid player shortage
Nurse has deep roots in Edmonton, having been with the Pliers for over a decade, which undoubtedly plays a role in his decision to remain. This leaves the Oilers in a challenging position, balancing player desires with roster optimization.
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