Riled Up Fan Base Reacts to Evan Bouchard Trade Debate

Evan Bouchard, a cornerstone of the Edmonton Oilers’ defense, is at the center of heated debates among fans and analysts regarding his future with the team. The discussion gained traction following a social media post suggesting that the Oilers should consider exploring the trade market for Bouchard before committing to a long-term contract worth over $9 million annually.

The suggestion sparked a flurry of opinions, ranging from vehement support for keeping Bouchard to bold proposals for potential trades. Fans are divided into two camps: those who view Bouchard as irreplaceable, especially during the “McDrai era” led by superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, and others who believe the Oilers should be open to trading him if the return addresses their broader roster needs.

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The Case for Keeping Bouchard

As analysts like Sports 1440’s Jason Gregor have pointed out, Bouchard’s stellar playoff performances are critical in any discussion about trading the defenseman. Ignoring his contributions there were a focal point for his defenders. Gregor noted that Bouchard knows how to elevate his game and others highlighted his ability to thrive under pressure. One user noted his critical role in driving offense from the blue line.

Kevin McCurdy, a prominent voice in the conversation, argued that trading Bouchard would be a colossal mistake for the Oilers. He emphasized that Bouchard’s skill set, particularly his contributions to the power play, is not as easy to replace as some might suggest.

For McCurdy and others, losing Bouchard would create a hole that the Oilers might struggle to fill. You simply can’t do that during McDavid and Draisaitl’s prime years.

The consensus seems to be that a long-term deal is the only viable path forward, even if it means feeling some of the sting that comes with his inevitable and sizeable cap hit.

The Bouchard Trade Advocates

Conversely, some arguments exploring a trade could make sense, especially if it yields a significant return. That would likely have to include a top-tier defenseman or addressing other roster weaknesses. With the salary cap expected to rise, skeptics of a $9 -$10 million contract for Bouchard questioned whether such a financial commitment would hinder the team’s ability to maintain depth.

Paul Almeida, whose post sparked the debate, suggested that Oilers management at least consider the possibility of moving Bouchard to maximize his trade value. Some who agree with Almeida took it even further, suggesting the Oilers shouldn’t invest heavily in a “one-dimensional” defenseman.

This perspective gained traction among those wary of overpaying a single player who they believe makes too many glaring mistakes and experiences extreme highs and lows.

What Will the Oilers Do With Bouchard?

On the surface, the Oilers face a complex decision. Underneath, it might not be that tough a call for them.

This is an organization that likes Bouchard…a lot. He might be in the doghouse with his coaches occasionally, but they know what he is and what he is becoming, and they believe they know what he will be.

Retaining Bouchard with a lucrative contract ensures stability. Conversely, trading him risks tearing apart the blue-line corps that understands he is a key part of their defensive plans.

Fans are discussing the idea, but the Oilers may have no plans at all to shop the defenseman. This could be a case of recency bias rearing its ugly head, and the Oilers’ plan to sign him hasn’t changed.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Habs, Canucks, Oilers, Leafs, Pens