It's now the perfect time for the Edmonton Oilers to extend their star defenseman
Photo credit: Imagn Images
The Edmonton Oilers may have a unique opportunity to secure Evan Bouchard to a more team-friendly contract since his performance this season has not met expectations.
Earlier this year, everyone believed Bouchard would ask for a deal worth $10-11 million annually for eight years, but with his current play, some like Tyler Yaremchuk feel the team could now lock him in for an $8 million per year deal for eight years.
"If I could sign Evan Bouchard to an 8x8 right now, I would run on foot to Rogers Place and make it happen."
Last season, Bouchard showed his offensive skills by playing 81 games with 18 goals, 64 assists and an impressive +34 rating, that also shows his defensive skills.
However, his numbers have dipped this season in 47 games (eight goals, 27 assists and a +14 rating).
Jonathan Willis suggests the Oilers strategically try to limit Bouchard's pairing with
Connor McDavid to keep his numbers down and then potentially ease contract negotiations.
Willis talked about how
Darnell Nurse's time with McDavid inflated his stats and contributed to his lucrative deal that is now considered one of the worst contracts in the NHL.
The coming months will be necessary for the Oilers as they will have to consider prolonging the contract for some of their big players.
A contract that benefits Bouchard and the team is critical to make sure Edmonton remains competitive in the McDavid-
Leon Draisaitl era.
Do you think Bouchard is still part of the elite of the NHL at the defenseman position?
Previously on Oilers Central
POLL |
JANVIER 24 | 228 ANSWERS It's now the perfect time for the Edmonton Oilers to extend their star defenseman Do you think Evan Bouchard is still part of the elite of the NHL? |
Yes | 105 | 46.1 % |
No | 123 | 53.9 % |
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