Is $10 Million Too Much for Bouchard? I Honestly Think It Isn’t.
When the idea of Evan Bouchard commanding $10 million per year first started circulating, many fans scoffed at the number. But is it really that outrageous? In a league where elite defensemen are becoming more and more central to Stanley Cup-winning blueprints, Bouchard’s value might actually be underestimated.
The Rise of Evan Bouchard
Since taking on a larger role with the Edmonton Oilers, Bouchard has shown flashes of becoming a top-tier, two-way defenseman. He’s quarterbacked the power play with authority, logged heavy minutes against top lines, and — perhaps most importantly — produced at nearly a point-per-game pace in the playoffs.
Players who can do all that don’t come cheap. If Bouchard were on the open market today, there would be no shortage of teams willing to throw 8 figures at him.
Why $10M Isn’t That Crazy
Let’s talk cap era. We’re entering a time where the NHL’s salary cap is expected to rise significantly. In a few years, $10 million might be equivalent to what $7–$8 million looks like today. It’s about projecting value, not just present output.
With Erik Karlsson making $11.5M, Dougie Hamilton at $9M, and even guys like Darnell Nurse at $9.25M, it’s not outlandish to suggest Bouchard is worth similar — or more — if he continues on his current trajectory.
The McDavid Dilemma
Now to the hot take: Connor McDavid should move on.
It sounds blasphemous, but hear it out. McDavid is the best player in the world — no question. But in the modern NHL, tying up over $12.5M (and likely more on his next deal) in one player makes team-building around him extraordinarily difficult, especially when that team also carries Draisaitl and Nurse on big-money contracts.
The Oilers’ window to win with McDavid may have quietly closed. Moving him for a top-tier goaltender and a high-end centre could free up cap space and rebalance the roster in a more sustainable, playoff-ready way.
Let’s be honest — if the Oilers couldn’t get it done with McDavid, Draisaitl, and a loaded offense, it’s probably not going to happen unless something drastically changes.
Building Around Bouchard
Reallocating McDavid’s cap hit could allow Edmonton to finally build a Cup-caliber defense and secure a franchise goaltender. Bouchard could become the new face of the franchise — a foundational piece to build around in the post-McDavid era. He’s young, still improving, and already logging #1 minutes in all situations.
Locking him up at $10M might feel bold now — but in a year or two, it could look like a steal.
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