Team Canada’s Olympic roster is officially set, and while the lineup is loaded with talent, one omission continues to spark debate —Evan Bouchard. Instead of the Edmonton Oilers defenseman, Canada opted to include Colton Parayko on its blue line, a decision that has drawn scrutiny given both players’ current trajectories and underlying impact.
While Parayko brings size and a defensive reputation, Bouchard’s recent performances and evolving perception suggest Canada may have left offense — and, arguably, overall value — on the table.
Craig Button Questions the Narrative Around Bouchard
During a recent interview with Edmonton Sports Talk, TSN scout and analyst Craig Button directly challenged the long-held assumptions surrounding Bouchard’s defensive game. Button argued that Bouchard’s play is often mischaracterized, especially when compared to defensemen viewed as “safe” or “reliable.”
Button also made a comparison to Hall of Fame defenseman Ray Bourque, pointing out how offense-oriented defensemen have always been more heavily scrutinized compared to shutdown types. “For every 20 things they do right, they do 3 things wrong.” This is an interesting approach, especially when considering Olympic teams, where performance in a small number of games may be more significant.
A Historic Performance Canada Couldn’t Ignore — But Did
However, Bouchard’s absence becomes even more curious when one considers his recent outburst of six points. Bouchard had three goals, six points, and eight shots on goal in one game. The last time another defenseman had that kind of performance since the 1959-60 season was Bobby Orr, who had it twice.
While no one is comparing Bouchard to Orr, that kind of performance is elite-level. In short international tournaments like the Olympics, game-breaking plays are what determine gold, silver, and bronze. Bouchard has shown he is capable of that.
Comparing the Selection: Bouchard vs. Parayko
The disparity between Bouchard and Parayko this season cannot be ignored. The latter currently has 0 goals and 12 assists in 52 games, accompanied by a minus-10 rating. While not the most reliable metric, plus/minus does spark some curiosity when combined with low offensive output.
In contrast, Bouchard fuels the offense from the backend, runs one of the most potent power plays in the NHL, and creates scoring opportunities. These are all elements that are enhanced on international-sized surfaces.
Canada didn’t need another stay-at-home defenseman. It needed players who could control the pace.
Olympic Hockey Favors Skill, Not Just Size
Historically, the Olympic tournament has placed a premium on skating, puck movement, and creativity over physicality. A larger ice surface means more space, and teams that control the puck will typically control the outcome of the game.
Bouchard’s skills are a perfect fit for this style of play. His puck movement and ability to jump into the play would have been a welcome addition to the talented forward group in Canada, and his experience on the man-advantage could have been the difference-maker in a close game.
Parayko’s size and defensive skills are certainly useful, and in a short tournament, the potential of a player may trump the risk.
A Missed Opportunity for Team Canada
With rosters finalized, the debate is no longer about possibility — it’s about reflection. Craig Button’s comments underscore a broader truth: Bouchard’s game may still be evolving defensively, but his overall impact is already undeniable.
Team Canada made its choice, but as Bouchard continues to produce at an elite level, the decision to leave him off the Olympic roster may age poorly. Sometimes, the safest pick isn’t the best one — and Evan Bouchard’s omission may prove to be just that.
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