NHL insider suggests reason why Connor McDavid isn't feeling good

Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid hasn't been at his best in the Oilers last stretch of games, and NHL insider Elliotte Friedman is suggesting a reason why.

McDavid is still the best player in the NHL by far, but he is having arguably his first down season. The last six games have been particularly tough, with a -12 on ice rating.

NHL insider says why Connor McDavid isn't feeling his best right now

McDavid gave a Herculean effort for Team Canada during the 4 Nations Faceoff that resulted in the overtime winner, but getting back to Edmonton, he clearly hasn't been himself. Friedman believes there's a jarring difference in play that may be affecting McDavid.

McDavid had an interesting line about not playing well, but I have a bit of a different theory: everyone in this tournament could skate and almost everyone was a two-way demon. There wasn't the room he's used to on a night-by-night basis in the NHL.

- Elliotte Friedman

Friedman's referencing McDavid's pre-game comments before facing the Florida Panthers. The Oilers captain admitted that he's not feeling his best right now, and criticized his own level of play.

I'd be lying if I said I've been feeling good out there. It's been tough to get going

If I'm not touching the puck, it's usually a sign that I'm not playing very well. The more times I touch it means I've won more battles, been around it a little bit more. Just haven't been around it enough.