Oilers top defenseman salary value dropping with poor season performance
The Edmonton Oilers organization may have an opportunity to sign Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard to a lower valued contract as his season has not gone according to plan and has dropped dramatically in performance.
Earlier this season, many across the NHL and within the Oilers felt that Bouchard earn a contract worth 10 to $11 million per season over eight years. But with his play, some including Oilers nation everyday host Tyler Yaremchuk feels the Oilers could sign him for eight years at $8 million per season.
Bouchard's seasonal numbers not looking impressive for new contract
This season has been a stark contrast compared to last season when Bouchard exploded in offence and in defensive numbers as he had played 81 games, scored 18 goals with 64 assists for 82 points and was a + 34.
This season he has played 47 games and has scored eight goals with 27 assists for 35 points and is a + 14 with nearly the same amount ice time as last season. He is still on pace for a decent season but certainly not the level he did last year which could affect the amount of money the Oilers are willing to spend to lock him in long term.
The Oilers are facing several contracts that are key including the face of their franchise Connor McDavid along with Bouchard who are looking for long term deals
within the next year or so.
NHL analyst feels Bouchard should on less with McDavid
During this season, hockey writer and analyst Jonathan Willis explains that the Oilers should not play Bouchard as often with Connor McDavid to keep his numbers lower which could help contract talks in the team's favor.
He explains that the Oilers chose to put Darnell nurse on with McDavid which inflated his stats and helped him secure his big deal with the team.
It will be a fascinating time over the coming months as the Oilers will face key decisions including Bouchard's contract but it's safe to say a defenseman with the offensive talent that Bouchard has does not come around often.
It's imperative the Oilers sign him long term no matter his deficiencies and hopefully a contract that's friendly enough to the team and to Bouchard.
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