In the modern day NHL, analytics are valued more than ever in constructing a winning team. To build out a complete roster capable of winning the Stanley Cup, teams need players to exceed their contract value. Analytics can help identifying these undervalued players, and they're favouring one Edmonton Oiler in particular.
The 24 year old Evan Bouchard is second across all NHL defenceman in expected goals for percentage, showing just how valuable his offensive playmaking is. Not only is he favoured by the advanced stats, but he's also 5th in defenceman scoring with 5 goals and 17 assists. He's currently on a point-per-game pace.
Coming off two incredible seasons on his entry level contract, recording two 40+ point seasons, it's incredible to see Bouchard develop his offensive talents further. This offseason, GM Ken Holland extended Bouchard on a two-year contract worth $3.9M annually. Now, if he continues at his current rate this year, he'll be worth his contract a few times over.
While Bouchard has had incredible offensive success, his defensive game is still only ever adequate at best. If he wants to take the next step in becoming an elite NHL defenceman, he'll still need to develop his defensive game. For now though, the offensive contributions will do just fine.
