Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse has been under pressure this season, and much of it comes from his contract. The eight-year, $74 million deal with a $9,250,000 cap hit follows him every night, becoming a key point for fans who expect more.Nurse is now 30, a defenceman drafted seventh overall by Edmonton in 2013. He has played 29 games this season with five goals and five assists, giving him 10 points and a -10 rating. He continues to log over 20 minutes per game, consistent in his role, even if the production is not strong on paper.In the video shared by Oilersnation on X, former Oilers goalie Devan Dubnyk stepped in with some understanding words. He knows how quickly judgment can grow in a passionate hockey market like Edmonton. Drafted 14th overall in 2004, he experienced similar pressure during his time with the team.Dubnyk spoke openly about why Nurse faces criticism:"You know, with Nurse, I think it's just, it's a little bit of his contract, and that's... ‘Listen, I'll take $9.2 million and have everybody hate me because of the amount of money that I'm getting all day.’ But he's still a human being, and it probably sucks a little bit."He pointed out Nurse’s qualities that often get overlooked:"Look at just the defenseman that he is and what he's gonna bring to the table… he's big, he's mean, he plays defense… they're kind of overshadowed 'cause he's making over $9 million a year."Dubnyk also added that expectations should be realistic:"I don't think he's ever going to be a $9 million player, and that doesn't make him a bad guy or bad player."Dubnyk encouraged viewing Darnell Nurse with perspective instead of frustration. He asked people to step back from the contract debate and pay attention to what Nurse contributes on the ice.Darnell Nurse's strong minutes in Oilers' 6-2 win over JetsThe Edmonton Oilers won 6-2 against the Winnipeg Jets at Rogers Place. Darnell Nurse had a quiet night, but worked from the blue line. He registered 5 shots on goal in 21:41 minutes of ice time.The Oilers started strong with four goals in the first period, which gave them a comfortable lead to work with. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins scored first, followed by Leon Draisaitl, Matt Savoie, and Evan Bouchard. Curtis Lazar added another in the second period, and David Tomasek scored in the third.After the win, coach Kris Knoblauch said the team defended better and allowed fewer dangerous chances."It comes down to defending so much better,” Knoblauch said, via NHL.com. “We were giving up so many grade-A opportunities. When you're not doing that, it's so much easier for the goaltender."Darnell Nurse will try to help Edmonton against the Buffalo Sabres next on December 9. The Oilers will aim to bring the same balance and pressure into their next game.