On This Day in 2011, the Edmonton Oilers Selected Ryan Nugent-Hopkins First Overall, Changing the Franchise’s Direction Forever

On this day in 2011, the Edmonton Oilers made a decision that would reshape the trajectory of their franchise for the next decade. With the first overall pick in the NHL Draft, the Oilers selected Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, a highly touted center from the Red Deer Rebels of the Western Hockey League (WHL). It was a moment of both hope and high expectations for a team that had been struggling at the bottom of the standings but eager to rebuild around young, dynamic talent.

For Nugent-Hopkins, it marked the beginning of a professional journey that has seen him evolve from a teenage phenom to a respected veteran, becoming an integral piece of Edmonton’s core. For the Oilers, it was the second consecutive year with the top overall pick, signaling their commitment to rebuilding through the draft after years of disappointment.

At the time, the Oilers were desperate for a player like Nugent-Hopkins. Edmonton had just finished last in the league, enduring a painful season that underscored their need for offensive skill, creativity, and hockey IQ down the middle. Nugent-Hopkins was considered by many scouts as the most complete playmaker available in the 2011 draft class—a player with vision, elite passing ability, and deceptive quickness, capable of making his teammates better.

Coming out of the WHL, Nugent-Hopkins had made a name for himself as one of the most intelligent young forwards in North America. During his draft year with the Red Deer Rebels, he compiled an impressive 106 points in 69 games, including 75 assists. His ability to read the play, create opportunities in tight spaces, and execute under pressure made him an enticing prospect, particularly for a franchise like Edmonton that lacked a true playmaking center to complement their emerging young stars.

The selection of Nugent-Hopkins followed the Oilers’ 2010 first overall pick of Taylor Hall, a dynamic winger with game-breaking speed and scoring touch. Together, Hall and Nugent-Hopkins represented the promise of a new era—one built on young, offensive talent capable of restoring the Oilers to their former glory.

Expectations were sky-high from the moment Nugent-Hopkins donned the blue and orange jersey on draft day. His arrival was seen as a key piece in the team’s long-term rebuild strategy, which also included other talented prospects like Jordan Eberle and Magnus Paajarvi. The Oilers believed they were assembling the core of a future contender, and Nugent-Hopkins was expected to play a central role.

Nugent-Hopkins made an immediate impact in his rookie season, demonstrating the poise and skill that had made him the consensus top pick. In his NHL debut against the Pittsburgh Penguins, he scored his first career goal, showcasing his quick release and knack for finding open ice. Over the course of the 2011-2012 season, he tallied 52 points in 62 games, despite battling injuries, and finished as a finalist for the Calder Memorial Trophy, awarded to the league’s top rookie.

Beyond the statistics, Nugent-Hopkins quickly established a reputation for his hockey sense, unselfish play, and commitment to team success. While not the most physically imposing player, his intelligence and anticipation allowed him to excel against older, stronger competition. He became known for his ability to set up plays on the power play, control possession in the offensive zone, and play a responsible two-way game.

However, like many top draft picks placed in rebuilding environments, Nugent-Hopkins’ early seasons were defined by both individual progress and team struggles. Despite flashes of brilliance from the young core, the Oilers remained mired near the bottom of the standings. Coaching changes, roster turnover, and organizational instability plagued the team, making it difficult to translate individual talent into consistent team success.

Through it all, Nugent-Hopkins remained a steady presence—developing his game, improving his defensive play, and taking on increased responsibility as a leader within the locker room. His versatility, willingness to play multiple positions, and dedication to the team’s growth earned him the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.

As the years passed, Nugent-Hopkins transitioned from a young, developing player into a seasoned NHL veteran. He became known for his ability to play in all situations—power play, penalty kill, five-on-five—and for his adaptability. Whether centering his own line or shifting to the wing to complement stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, Nugent-Hopkins consistently contributed to the team’s success.

One of the defining aspects of Nugent-Hopkins’ career has been his resilience. Playing in a passionate, hockey-obsessed market like Edmonton comes with immense pressure, especially for a first overall pick. Yet, he has consistently approached the game with professionalism, work ethic, and humility, weathering the highs and lows of team performance while focusing on his own development.

It wasn’t until the mid-2010s that the Oilers began to see their rebuild take tangible steps forward. The arrival of McDavid in 2015 injected a new level of excitement and star power into the organization, while Draisaitl’s emergence as one of the league’s elite players added further depth. Throughout this transformation, Nugent-Hopkins provided stability, often serving as the glue that held various line combinations together and filling critical roles at both ends of the ice.

In the 2020-2021 season, Nugent-Hopkins reached a significant milestone by signing an eight-year contract extension with the Oilers, signaling his commitment to the franchise that drafted him and his belief in the team’s future. It was a testament to his loyalty and his desire to see the rebuild through to fruition.

For the Oilers, Nugent-Hopkins’ long-term presence has been invaluable. His ability to play with McDavid and Draisaitl, contribute on special teams, and provide leadership has been instrumental in Edmonton’s return to playoff contention. Though the team has faced its share of postseason disappointments, the foundation built over the past decade—with Nugent-Hopkins as a central figure—has positioned the Oilers as perennial contenders.

Looking back at that 2011 draft day, it’s clear that selecting Nugent-Hopkins was more than just acquiring a talented player—it was a step toward rebuilding the culture and identity of the franchise. His development into a reliable, team-first contributor reflects both his personal character and the patience required to build a winning organization.

Over the years, Nugent-Hopkins has amassed over 800 games played for the Oilers, reaching personal milestones in goals, assists, and points, while playing his entire career in Edmonton. His name is now synonymous with perseverance, loyalty, and the evolution of the Oilers from basement dwellers to playoff contenders.

As we reflect on this day in 2011, Oilers fans can appreciate the impact of that draft selection not only in terms of on-ice production but in the broader narrative of Edmonton’s journey back to respectability. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins may not always grab headlines with flashy plays, but his steady contributions, leadership, and unwavering commitment have made him one of the most important pieces of the modern-era Oilers.

The story of Nugent-Hopkins and the Oilers is still being written. But on this anniversary, it’s worth remembering how one draft pick, made on this day 13 years ago, helped lay the foundation for Edmonton’s hockey resurgence.