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Oilers analyst predicts star defenseman will not sign a long-term deal
Oilers analyst Alan Mitchell of the Athletic feels that the Oilers organization will not sign defenseman Evan Bouchard to a long-term deal.
This prediction certainly has merit as the organization had signed Bouchard to a bridge deal worth $7,000,000 holding the capital $3.9 million per season. Is completing this deal and will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the year.
Bouchard's performance has been under microscope all season
A reasonable prediction has Edmonton repeating the sins of the past and signing Bouchard to a one- or two-year bridge deal. Bouchard is an impact player, despite the warts. The smart play is long-term, but the organization has yet to show the kind of vision required for such a move. - Allan Mitchell
The Oilers and the rest of the NHL have been scrutinizing and analyzing Bouchard's performance after he had a career year last year and a very strong playoff performance.
The 25-year-old right shot defenseman who stands at six foot 3 and 192 lbs has certainly had a down year compared to last year. Through 63 games, he has scored eleven goals, 39 assists for 50 points and is a + 14.
Last season was his best year of his NHL career where he had played 81 games, scoring 18 goals with 64 assists and 82 points when was a + 34.
Contract numbers have varied for Bouchard
Many feel that Bouchard would likely see at least $9 million per season regardless of what his numbers are in the statistics. There have been some questionable moments when it comes to his defensive play over the course of the season which could hurt his numbers slightly.
But in the end, the Oilers would be wise to find a way to sign Bouchard long term as he is only 25 years old and has plenty of time to adjust his game and to build off of that 82-point season.
All eyes will be on Bouchard for the remainder of this year and how he will perform in the playoffs as he had shown his worth during last year's Stanley Cup playoffs and finals.
| POLL | ||
MARS 10 | 783 ANSWERS Oilers analyst predicts star defenseman will not sign a long-term deal What do you think the Oilers should do with Evan Bouchard | ||
| Long term deal | 126 | 16.1 % |
| Short term deal | 657 | 83.9 % |
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