Oilers’ defenseman Evan Bouchard cemented his name in NHL history by notching his 40th career playoff point in lightning-fast fashion during Game 4 of the second-round showdown against the Canucks.
Assisting on Leon Draisaitl’s crucial power-play goal in the opening period, Bouchard hit the 40-point mark in just his 37th postseason appearance. This achievement places him as the third fastest defenseman to reach this milestone in NHL history, trailing only the legendary Bobby Orr (33 games) and Brian Leetch (32 games). The night only got sweeter for Bouchard as he surpassed his own record with a clutch goal in the final moments of regulation, securing a pivotal victory and leveling the series at two games apiece.
This standout performance adds another accolade to the 24-year-old defenseman’s exceptional playoff campaign, where he’s already eclipsed his point total from last spring in three fewer games. Bouchard has truly come into his own on both ends of the ice, solidifying his status as Edmonton’s standout blueliner. His partnership with Mattias Ekholm has proven dynamic and effective, anchoring the Oilers’ defense with authority.
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Currently ranking third in team scoring with an impressive 15 points (four goals and 11 assists) in just nine postseason outings, Bouchard finds himself in elite company, trailing only Draisaitl and Connor McDavid in springtime production. His consistent performance has become a linchpin for Edmonton’s success, significantly boosting their chances of victory whenever he takes the ice. Remarkably, he accomplishes all this while maintaining a contract just shy of $4 million per season, making a strong case for the most valuable defenseman contract in the league.
As the Oilers gear up for Game 5 on Thursday, all eyes will be on Bouchard to continue his stellar play and propel his team towards victory. Don’t miss the action, airing on Sportsnet and CBC, with puck drop slated for 8 p.m. MDT.
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