Even if COMBINE the last 3 seasons the boxcars are bad for Nuge. That is not insignificant. Really we're looking at just over 100 pts contributed over the last 3 seasons and paying 18M for that. That's including this season. Nuge probably bumps that up to around 110 pts in remainder of games but still. What kind of ACTUAL return on investment is that from a #1 pick high paid topsix player?
Heres some Chia thought I am pondering (yuck);
Even on basis of respective contributions this season we got 35pts from Nuge and 31 from Strome. With Nuge getting much better looks, linemates, and more PP time. With Strome playing a lot of his minutes in bottomsix or around the lineup. Thing is Strome had periods just as hot as Nuge this season when he's played Center. I'm concerned that's how Chia will see this season. It won't escape Chia's attention either that Strome has 90pts in last 3 seasons combined. Only 13 back of what Nuge has contributed in same timespan. This is the way Chia thinks.
I'm not a Strome fan by any way, just interesting how the actual production contributed is similar. (yes I realize Nuge was injured and missing games but Nuge has been injured 2/3 seasons now missing considerable games) Strome seems more durable. Strome same age, with some potential to improve.
Heres an interesting thing. Had the Oilers traded Eberle for Hoffman last season, and Nuge for Strome this offseason these are understandable, comprehensible deals. The Oilers get same position player, even Nuge for Strome can make some sort of sense from a cap perspective. If the deals were done that way they become more plausible. You don't want to be paying your 3C what Nuge makes, you want a payscale more like Strome makes at that position.
The depressing thing for Nuge fans is you know the Oilers suddenly kicking Nuge up to McD means they are either pumping him or seeing what he can do up there in a different position. With Oilers using Khaira and Strome at Center you know they are kicking tires on what they got for 3C options should the team move Nuge. This is what the team is looking at currently. These games are being watched intently. Good for Nuge to rise to the short term challenge but where is this level of effort from him most of the time?
30 goals for Nuge with or without McD, sure. tbh I often don't even make people honor the bets. I win usually, just so you know
Its just fun. You're definitely the type of poster that will at least acknowledge it later one way or the other.
cheers, and thanks for the discussion