Insider gives his take on Evan Bouchard's struggles this season
Photo credit: NHLPA
Last season, Edmonton Oilers defenceman Evan Bouchard had a historic season, notching an impressive 82 points. While Evan Bouchard is still putting up decent numbers this season, his play on the blue-line has declined significantly. According Jack Micheals, Bouchard's demise this season stems from an overall sense of insurmountable pressure.
Coming into this season, Evan Bouchard had extremely high expectations.
It's no secret that Evan Bouchard is up for a contract renewal at the end of this season, and fans we're hoping to see him perform an at all-star level.
During the Oilers last matchup against the Leafs, Mattias Ekholm was a last minute scratch due to illness, and the stage was set for Bouchard to rise to the occasion.
Although he did score a goal, his defensive play was lacklustre at best.
According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, speaking to the 2 Mutts Hockey Podcast today, Oilers broadcaster Jack Michaels touched upon how much Bouchard wanted to play for Team Canada, and how contract negotiations may be getting into his head. Additionally, he's played an incredible amount of hockey in the last 2 years.
He definitely wanted a shot to play Four Nations. I think that's important to him.
I don't think, Evan Bouchard, it's a pressure thing - but perhaps a conglomeration of things. Contract, 4 Nations, and the fact that, like everyone else, he's played a ton of hockey in the last three years.
- Jack Michaels
I don't think, Evan Bouchard, it's a pressure thing - but perhaps a conglomeration of things. Contract, 4 Nations, and the fact that, like everyone else, he's played a ton of hockey in the last three years.
- Jack Michaels
According to Micheals, the pressure of playing for a new contract while also trying to make Team Canada has made Bouchard look nervous on the ice.
While Evan Bouchard failed to make Team Canada, there's no denying he's an instrumental piece of the Oilers blue-line.
As per McCormick, for now it appears like Bouchard's got a case of the yips, but many in Oil Country still believe he's just having a down season, and can actually improve his game to new heights.
Although his play this season may not merit a +$10 million dollar contract, I think I speak for all fans when I say I hope Stan Bowman secures him with a long-term deal.
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