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NHL players and analysts come to Evan Bouchard's defense after ugly turnover
Photo credit: Imagn Images
Analysts and NHLers alike have spoken in defense of Oilers' D-man Evan Bouchard, after he turned in a sub-par performance against the New York Islanders Thursday night, a game which Edmonton lost 4-2.
Now, there is no question that Evan Bouchard is one the league's better defenseman, and perhaps one of the best offensive defenseman. Yet, it's the lack of detail in the D-zone that has often led to criticism from both fans and other analysts.
Evan Bouchard defended after being criticized for turnovers
So far this year, Evan Bouchard has turned the puck over 8 times, which have led to a scoring chance by the opposition; but it's the price of having an elite scoring defenseman on the roster.
«Evan Bouchard will have a two point night next game," ex-NHLer and NHL Network analyst Jason Demers said. "Save this tweet. Everybody take a chill pill. The guy has been to the Finals last two years and probably had a nice night out in NYC at Catch. He will be fine, go pound sand.»
Indeed, he will be fine, despite the turnovers. We've seen this before, and he's each time that he'll make the adjustments he needs to make. Bouchard will go out and do what he does best, which analyst Alan Mitchell of The Athletic also believes.
«Here's the thing about Evan Bouchard. He's worth it. I understand and see the flaws. (Sports writer) Rachel Kryshak accurately calls it 'controller unplugged' and those plays have an impact. He's worth it. He's SO good with the puck. And he WILL mature. Keep the faith!»
Evan is THAT good, yes, and Oilers' fans witness his skill on a regular basis, including the turnovers, which are often forgotten about as soon as he skates up ice and makes a spectacular offensive play, or dishes the puck to McDavid for a goal. Mattias Ekholm seems to agree:
«I'd be careful criticizing him because that's who he is," Ekholm said. "And obviously he knows that he would want it (the mistakes) back. There's going to be nights, there's going to be mistakes, and I think one of Evan's super power is he forgets quick and he just goes out there and plays his game. I'm pretty sure we'll see a different Bouchard on Saturday.»
Next game is today at 3:30 ET, against the New Jersey Devils. We'll keep an eye on Bouchard for ya.
| POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 18 | 814 ANSWERS NHL players and analysts come to Evan Bouchard's defense after ugly turnover Do you 'take the good with the bad' with Evan Bouchard; or the bad just too much? | ||
| yes, take him as he is | 280 | 34.4 % |
| no, too many turnovers | 534 | 65.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
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