It's now the perfect time for the Edmonton Oilers to extend their star defenseman

Earlier this year, everyone believed Bouchard would ask for a deal worth $10-11 million annually for eight years, but with his current play, some like Tyler Yaremchuk feel the team could now lock him in for an $8 million per year deal for eight years.

Last season, Bouchard showed his offensive skills by playing 81 games with 18 goals, 64 assists and an impressive +34 rating, that also shows his defensive skills.

However, his numbers have dipped this season in 47 games (eight goals, 27 assists and a +14 rating).

Jonathan Willis suggests the Oilers strategically try to limit Bouchard's pairing with Connor McDavid to keep his numbers down and then potentially ease contract negotiations.

Willis talked about how Darnell Nurse's time with McDavid inflated his stats and contributed to his lucrative deal that is now considered one of the worst contracts in the NHL.

The coming months will be necessary for the Oilers as they will have to consider prolonging the contract for some of their big players.

A contract that benefits Bouchard and the team is critical to make sure Edmonton remains competitive in the McDavid-Leon Draisaitl era.

Do you think Bouchard is still part of the elite of the NHL at the defenseman position?