Oilers Make Bouchard NHL's Fourth-Highest Paid Defenseman

The Edmonton Oilers have signed defenseman Evan Bouchard to a four-year, $42 million extension, making him the NHL's fourth-highest-paid defenseman at $10.5 million per year. The contract covers only two of Bouchard's unrestricted free agent years and will allow him to reach free agency at age 29. Bouchard posted 67 points in the regular season and impressed in the playoffs, strengthening his reputation for elite offensive output and power-play ability, though his defensive consistency is debated. The deal has raised concerns about Edmonton's future cap flexibility, especially with large contracts already committed to stars like Connor McDavid and Darnell Nurse. Despite mixed reactions over the contract's value and term, many see retaining Bouchard as vital given the scarcity of true No. 1 defensemen. The Oilers will need careful roster management to remain competitive under the salary cap.