Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is a Canadian professional ice hockey player and alternate captain for the Edmonton Oilers of the NHL.
Before his NHL career, he played minor hockey and then joined the Red Deer Rebels in the WHL, where he earned several awards, including leading the league in assists and points during the 2010-11 season.
Leading up to the 2011 NHL Draft, Nugent-Hopkins was highly praised by scouts and analysts for his offensive skills and hockey sense.
Since joining the Oilers, he has achieved significant milestones, such as recording his 300th career assist in 2021 and reaching 500 NHL points in his 678th game.
He is currently under an 8-year, $41 million contract with the Oilers, with an average annual salary of $5,125,000.
Siblings
Ryan has an older brother named Adam.
However, not much is known about Adam including his personal life or career as he prefers to lead a private life compared to his famous brother.
Career
Nugent-Hopkins’ NHL career with the Edmonton Oilers has been marked by consistent performance and growth.
Drafted first overall in 2011, expectations were high, and he quickly became a fixture in the Oilers’ lineup.
While his early years were characterized by adapting to the NHL pace and contributing offensively, his role has evolved over time into that of a reliable two-way player.
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Over the years, Nugent-Hopkins has demonstrated versatility, playing both center and wing, and has been utilized in various roles, including power-play specialist and penalty killer.
His hockey IQ and playmaking abilities have consistently made him a valuable asset on the ice.
He’s known for his vision, passing skills, and ability to read the play, which allows him to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
The 2022-23 season was a career year for Nugent-Hopkins, where he achieved personal bests and etched his name in Oilers’ franchise history.
His milestone of scoring his 200th career goal was a testament to his longevity and scoring ability.
Reaching 100 points in a single season was a significant achievement, highlighting his offensive prowess and contribution to the team’s success.
Furthermore, being part of a trio alongside Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl to each achieve 100+ points in a season underscored the Oilers’ offensive depth and Nugent-Hopkins’ integral role within it.
Reaching 800 games played solely for the Oilers is another notable accomplishment, reflecting his dedication and loyalty to the organization.
Accolades
In the WHL, Nugent-Hopkins earned the Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy, CHL Top Draft Prospect Award, WHL East First All-Star Team selection, WHL Rookie of the Year in 2010, Canadian Major Junior All-Rookie Team in 2010, and the WHL Achievement Award.
IN the NHL, he was selected for the NHL All-Rookie Team in 2012 and was named NHL Rookie of the Month in both October and November 2011.
Nugent-Hopkins was also ranked as the number one draft-eligible skater by The NHL Central Scouting Bureau, ISS, TSN, and The Hockey News leading up to the 2011 NHL entry draft.
He won back-to-back BC Bantam Championships with the Burnaby Winter Club in 2005-06 and 2006-07.
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