Admit it, clinching third place in team scoring is quite a remarkable achievement, especially in the Connor McDavid-Leon Draisaitl era of the Edmonton Oilers. Competing for that spot behind them is no small feat, especially this year, given that one strong contender happens to be a defenseman.
But then again, Evan Bouchard isn’t your typical defenseman, for better or worse, depending on the occasion. For instance, there are moments like when Bouchard missed his defensive assignment in Monday’s game against the L.A. Kings, allowing Alex Laferriere to score and put them ahead 2-1. On the flip side, there are instances like when Bouchard contributed to Draisaitl’s tying goal and then scored the game-winning goal with his powerful shot from the blue line, securing a 4-2 victory.
With the impressive offensive numbers Bouchard has been posting this season, it’s easier to overlook occasional defensive lapses. In his third full season with the Oilers, the 24-year-old from Oakville, Ont., has been averaging a point per game, already tallying a career-high 56 points in 56 games played so far. This places him among the top five NHL defensemen in terms of scoring, with Bouchard trailing just one point behind the team’s leading goal scorer, Zach Hyman, who has 38 goals and 19 assists in 55 games.
Bouchard’s game-winning goal on Monday marked his 15th of the season, putting him tied for the league lead in goals by a defenseman with the Calgary Flames’ MacKenzie Weegar. Additionally, his assist on Draisaitl’s goal was his 41st of the season, achieved after reaching the 40-assist milestone in the previous game. The only defenseman in franchise history to reach 40 assists in fewer games was Oilers defensive coach Paul Coffey.
However, Bouchard claims not to be fixated on these statistics. He prefers to focus on his game rather than the numbers. Nevertheless, his offensive prowess doesn’t completely overshadow any defensive shortcomings.
Despite Bouchard’s offensive contributions, defensive breakdowns remain a concern for the Oilers. Yet, his teammates don’t see him as a liability; they appreciate his efforts and acknowledge his remarkable season.
While comparisons to past players like Sheldon Souray are flattering, Bouchard remains focused on team success. And currently, the Oilers are striving to regain momentum after a challenging stretch following their impressive win streak.
As they face the St. Louis Blues in their final game of February, Bouchard emphasizes the importance of rest and self-management, especially with a busy schedule ahead.