Over the past few years, Jesse Puljujarvi has become an extremely polarizing player for the Edmonton Oilers fanbase. One half, which consists more of the analytic-minded folks, believe he is playing quite well despite his lack of offensive production a quarter way through the 2022-23 season, pointing to some of his advanced stats paired with what they believe is exceptional defensive play.
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On the other side of the fence are the individuals who go more so by the eye test, where, to them, Puljujarvi has done absolutely nothing of significance so far this season, despite getting plenty of reps beside the world’s best player in Connor McDavid. Through his first 20 games, he has just a single goal and a lousy four points.
Regardless of one’s opinion on the Finnish winger, it isn’t exactly a well-kept secret that the Oilers were looking to deal him this summer. That never happened, however, as they didn’t receive the offers they were hoping for and were afraid to deal him for nothing in fear that he could become the next Valeri Nichushkin. For those unaware, Nichushkin is another European forward who struggled to produce for a number of years despite having great analytical numbers. To no surprise amongst those in the analytics community, he eventually figured things out offensively and has since become a force for the Colorado Avalanche.
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While saying Puljujarvi has a chance at becoming Nichushkin may seem like a stretch to some, there are many who believe he still has what it takes to become a star-caliber player. Whether that is the case or not remains to be seen, but one thing is clear, if he is indeed to hit another level as a player, it won’t come as a member of the Oilers.
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Despite what Puljujarvi supporters may say, the 24-year-old has been given plenty of opportunities by the Oilers in recent seasons. No, he hasn’t received time on the power play like some have wanted, but he has often been on a line with McDavid over the past three seasons. Unlike his linemate who seems to always be atop the NHL leaderboard in points, Puljujarvi has never surpassed the 40-point mark.
As far as opportunities go to put up great offensive numbers, there is arguably none better than being placed on a line with McDavid. Evander Kane proved just that a season ago, joining…
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