Is Ryan Nugent-Hopkins a future hall of famer for the Edmonton Oilers?
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is a loved figure in Oil Country and as he gears up for the 2024-25 NHL season his status continues to rise in the NHL.
Drafted first overall by the Edmonton Oilers in 2011, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins has amassed nearly 900 regular-season games and over 70 playoff games.
At just 31, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is nearing a remarkable milestone with the 900-game plateau. With a team-friendly cap hit of $5.1 million through 2028-29, he has the potential to become one of the longest-serving Oilers in history. Currently third on the team's all-time games played list, he could surpass Kevin Lowe's record of 1,037 games if he maintains his health and performance. Achieving 1,500 games would place him among the NHL's elite and opening discussions about his Hall of Fame candidacy.
While his consistent production has earned him respect, his lack of major individual awards such as a Stanley Cup or All-Star selections could put some shade on his Hall of Fame chances. But history shows that players like Glenn Anderson and Lowe have still earned their place in hockey's pantheon without all these major individuals.
If Nugent-Hopkins can stay healthy and contribute significantly over the next five years then he could solidify his legacy as one of the greatest Oilers of all time. Add a Stanley Cup victory to this and his Hall of Fame case would probably be a sure thing, allowing him to transition from a fan-favorite to a franchise legend. The upcoming season is crucial and not just for the team's championship aspirations but also for Nugent-Hopkins' place in the history of the game.
Source: The Hockey Writers
Is Ryan Nugent-Hopkins Destined for the Hockey Hall of Fame?
