Quoting: STLBlues17
In theory they look a little better, but are we supposed to expect career years for 4 players like last year? I mean I'm not underselling Drai and Nuge, but they both killed their former career highs and then there's also guys like Kassian and Chiasson who put up some unsustainable numbers.
Nuge put up highs with virtually no half-decent wingers so I wouldn't be so sure that he dips below 60 points now. And yes Drai had a career year, as did McDavid, but they are barely in their prime so there is no statistical reason to say they go downhill. Of course players will fluctuate, but there is no basis to predict a huge decline.
As for Kassian, he only played on the top line starting around December, and proceeded to score 13 of his 15 goals in 43 games in that role. I see no reason why he cannot get at least 15 if he plays a full 82 with McD and Drai.
Chiasson will likely not get 22 again, but mainly because his spot will be pushed into by Neal, Benson if he plays well in camp, and perhaps Puljujarvi if he finally comes around. Between those players pushing for time beside Nuge and Chiasson still there, I do not see an overall reduction
I would agree that Drai, McD and Nuge would be set to reduce their numbers if the players around them got worse this offseason, but that is simply not the case. In fact, there is marginal improvement in the supporting cast offensively. If there are a dozen or a couple dozen more goals from this supporting cast, there someone will be increasing their assist totals. And I'd like to bet that those players will be McD, Drai and Nuge when they are double shifted at times and on the powerplay.