Connor McDavid sounds off on struggling Darnell Nurse

The Edmonton Oilers find themselves in a less than idea situation, trailing the Dallas Stars two games to one in the Western Conference Final with tonight's critical Game 4 on deck from Rogers Place in downtown Edmonton. 

And one figure on the Oilers roster who has been facing criticism is top defenseman Darnell Nurse, who was recently called out by head coach Kris Knoblauch: 

"I think there's still more for him, I think he can play better," Knoblauch said. "The way he checks and covers the ice - I don't know anyone in the NHL who is able to get around the ice as quick as he can and close plays off. He's so efficient at that...I think that's his strongest attribute. For him to play well, that's something he has to be doing every shift. Darnell can play better."

Nurse is currently a -12 while having been on the ice for 18 opposition even strength goals during the postseason, the most in the NHL. However, team captain Connor McDavid is coming to his teammate's defense. 

(Nurse) is a big piece of our room," McDavid said. "Plus minus, I know it's a funny stat. But he gives us everything he has and always has for a long time. He's big part of our room and I'd expect him to have a great one tonight." 

It's certainly a classy move for McDavid to have his teammate's back in the midst of his struggles. Can Nurse and the Oilers turn things around tonight? 

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