It’s another edition of NHL rumours as we near the start of the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Edmonton Oilers are moving on after dispatching with the Los Angeles Kings in six games. Edmonton finally broke through after Los Angeles provided stiff opposition. One of the reasons the Oilers are moving on is Evan Bouchard. Today’s NHL rumours takes a look at a possible Evan Bouchard contract that could be coming this summer.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Edmonton Oilers Seek Evan Bouchard Contract Bridge
Rumour: Matt Larkin of the Daily Faceoff took a look at the top restricted free agents in the coming off-season. Bouchard will be an RFA at the end of the current season and has stepped up during the post-season. The Oakville, Ontario native makes over $863,000 per season, but will be getting a sizable raise after July 1.
The 10 most intriguing RFAs of the 2023 playoffs:
From the #LetsGoOilers' Evan Bouchard to the #LeafsForever's Ilya Samsonov, these are @MLarkinHockey's names to watch:https://t.co/dwezikyutE
— Daily Faceoff (@DailyFaceoff) April 27, 2023
Larkin said that $5 million could signify a hefty bump from his currently salary. This would give the Oilers some time to see if Bouchard can step up his play even more. However, there could be a problem if the Oilers make a long post-season run. Boucard could want a long-term deal to show his worth to the club.
Impact of Evan Bouchard Contract
Edmonton already has $76 million committed to the salary cap for next season. However, the cap number doesn’t expect to go up by very much this off-season. General manager Ken Holland might have to move some contracts if the cap is only going up the estimated $1 million. The Oilers are clinging to the hope Bouchard will take the bridge contract.
Could things get to a point where they may have to trade Boucard? It would be unfortunate for an Oilers’ group that has been tinkering with their defensive group for years. Bouchard seems like he’s taking the next steps in his career and he should be paid for it.
Main photo by: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
