Evan Bouchard has been the standout player in the ongoing rivalry with Quinn Hughes, especially evident in their recent playoff clashes. Bouchard has scored in three consecutive games and leads all defensemen with 15 points (4 goals, 11 assists) in nine playoff games, including three game-winners.
The 2018 NHL Draft saw Hughes and Bouchard picked closely, and their 2023-24 regular-season performances were nearly identical. However, the playoffs have revealed a clear distinction. Bouchard has been instrumental for the Edmonton Oilers, highlighted by his game-winning goal with 38.1 seconds left in Game 4 against the Vancouver Canucks, tying the series at 2-2.
Bouchard’s precise wrist shot, which threaded through traffic and past Canucks goalie Arturs Silovs, came shortly after Dakota Joshua’s deflection goal for the Canucks. “We had to finish the period strong,” Bouchard commented, emphasizing the team’s resilience.
In contrast, Hughes has struggled under the Oilers’ relentless pressure, managing nine assists in 10 games but finding it tough to execute his usual dynamic play. Despite a strong third-period effort in Game 4, Hughes and the Canucks couldn’t secure the win.
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Canucks coach Rick Tocchet and captain Hughes are now focused on bouncing back in Game 5, with Hughes emphasizing the need for sustained pressure and resilience.
Bouchard’s post-season excellence follows a stellar regular season where he was fourth in scoring among defensemen with 82 points (18 goals, 64 assists). Both Bouchard and Hughes were highly coveted in the 2018 draft, with the Canucks and Oilers securing their talents at seventh and tenth overall, respectively.
As the series continues, all eyes will be on Bouchard and Hughes when they clash again Thursday at Rogers Arena.
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