This year has seen its fair share of surprise contributors. This week, we’re going to investigate some of the more positive surprises and take a closer look at what was driving those gains and whether we feel confident in replication moving forward.

Later on, we’ll check in with the more disappointing surprises and whether we think those players are due to a comeback or a continued fall from grace.

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, C - Edmonton Oilers

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins has set career highs in virtually every offensive category this season. And he’s done it at the age of 29. Sure, we’re talking about a former first-overall pick. But whenever a player goes bananas right as they’re about to turn 30, eyebrows will be raised, and for good reason.

But is it sustainable, even for the immediate future?

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