The Oilers have locked up their top defenseman, signing Evan Bouchard to a four-year extension worth $42 million (US), carrying a $10.5 million average annual value through 2028–29.
Since being drafted 10th overall in 2018, 25-year-old Bouchard has evolved into a cornerstone on Edmonton’s blue line. He recently wrapped up his fourth full season with a team-high 67 points—14 goals and 53 assists—in 82 games, also ranking fifth among NHL defensemen in scoring.
What truly stands out is his playoff dominance. Over 22 games in the 2024–25 postseason, Bouchard posted an impressive 23 points, once again topping all NHL defensemen. In particular, during Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final, he registered three assists and set an Oilers single-postseason defenseman record with 26 assists.
His consistency isn’t a fluke—he’s already established himself as one of Edmonton’s most prolific playoff defensemen with 81 points in 75 career postseason games, trailing only the legendary Paul Coffey. In fact, Bouchard tied Coffey with 33 career power-play points in Oilers playoff history as well.
Regular-season contributions have been equally solid: over the past four seasons, he’s played in nearly every game, tallying 232 points (52 goals, 180 assists).
General Manager Stan Bowman emphasized the importance of the deal: “Evan’s become a key pillar for us. He plays big minutes, drives offense, and performs when it matters most.” With Bouchard secured long-term, Edmonton’s core remains intact and poised to chase the franchise’s first Stanley Cup since 1990.
For a city that lives and breathes hockey, Bouchard’s signing signifies more than a contract—it’s a vote of confidence in a core that continues to carry Edmonton’s Cup hopes.
