Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse appears to have addressed swirling trade rumors in a subtle but telling way. Following reports that the Oilers asked players with no-trade clauses about potential moves, Nurse posted a cryptic meme to his Instagram story.
The meme, referencing the viral “Why You Always Lying” video, sparked fan speculation that the veteran blueliner was pushing back against recent media claims.
Oilers’ Darnell Nurse Sends Subtle Message Amid Trade Rumors
The report, shared by NHL insider Elliotte Friedman on his “32 Thoughts” podcast, stated the Oilers had informal conversations with several players, including Nurse, after their Stanley Cup Final loss to the Florida Panthers.
According to Friedman, while Viktor Arvidsson agreed to a move and was dealt to the Bruins, both Nurse and Adam Henrique chose to stay in Edmonton.
Tyler Yaremchuk of “Oilers Nation” shared a screenshot of Nurse’s Instagram story, writing, “Those of you who get the reference will know EXACTLY the message Nurse is sending.”
Those of you get the reference will know EXACTLY the message that Darnell Nurse is sending with his most recent Instagram story. #Oilers pic.twitter.com/1iC7eVPw7g
— Tyler Yaremchuk (@tyleryaremchuk) July 8, 2025
Fans were quick to weigh in. Some speculated Nurse may have never been asked to waive his no-move clause, while others questioned the accuracy of media reporting.
“So he wasn’t asked to waive the NMC?” asked one fan on X.
So he wasn’t asked to waive the NMC ? If so that’s just more bad reporting on Edmonton media
— Peace ☮️ (@Haywire45) July 8, 2025
“Poor Nurse. He had an excellent season last year. I wish people would leave him alone! The more confidence he has the better he’ll play!” added another.
Poor Nurse. He had an excellent season last year. I wish people would leave him alone! The more confidence he has the better he’ll play!
— Monica (@MReagan3) July 8, 2025
“Either they didn’t ask or he didn’t refuse to waive. Which one?” tweeted one.
Either they didn’t ask or he didn’t refuse to waive. Which one?
— Fickle Fan and Aspiring Fat Guy (@heresdylan) July 8, 2025
“Friedman doesn’t lie to get clicks,” countered another X user.
Friedman doesn’t lie to get clicks lol. So this is very curious.
— Rory Williamson (@RoryCWilliamson) July 8, 2025
Nurse, 30, is under contract through 2030 with a deal carrying an average annual value of $9.25 million. While some fans have criticized the contract’s size compared to his performance, it’s worth noting that Nurse has consistently been a key figure on the Oilers’ blue line.
Oilers Defenseman Stirs Buzz, But Contract Complicates Any Trade
Despite criticism, Nurse has strong ties to Edmonton. He’s been with the Oilers his entire NHL career, and by all accounts, values being part of a team still chasing its first Cup since 1990. After back-to-back Final appearances, the organization is under pressure to tweak the roster, but Nurse’s no-move clause gives him control over his future.
As the Oilers navigate the offseason, his contract remains buyout-proof due to high signing bonuses. Unless Nurse agrees to a trade or the team finds a creative cap solution, he’s expected to remain in Edmonton, at least in the near future.
