Important update on Evan Bouchard contract talks

The Edmonton Oilers got some valuable production out of defenseman Evan Bouchard during the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs, as he would lead all defensemen with 17 points in 12 games. While the Oilers did not ultimately get the result in the postseason they were looking for, Bouchard proved himself to be a valuable member of the blue line while also providing some timely offensive punch. 

And it just so happens that his current contract has come to a close, and he's now a restricted free agent. Oilers general manager Ken Holland

According to NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman in his latest "32 Thoughts" podcast, Bouchard's next cap hit could be in the neighborhood of $3.5 to $4 million a season. 

“[They’ve] got to get Bouchard done,” Friedman said. “One or two years. I’ve heard if it’s a two-year deal, it might end being between like $3.5 to $4 million.”

Holland freed up some cap space from the Oilers books last week when he sent both Kailer Yamamoto and Klim Kostin to his successor as GM of the Detroit Red Wings in Steve Yzerman. Right now, the Oilers have just under $6 million in available space. 

Bouchard also added eight goals and 32 assists while playing in all 82 regular season games this past season.

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