Elliotte Friedman senses ‘Confidence’ surrounding Evan Bouchard’s upcoming contract extension talks with the Oilers, signaling positive progress.

In the dynamic world of NHL contract negotiations, every word from trusted insiders is scrutinized closely by fans, analysts, and teams alike. Recently, Elliotte Friedman, one of hockey’s most respected insiders, expressed a notable sense of confidence regarding the ongoing contract extension discussions between the Edmonton Oilers and their rising star defenseman, Evan Bouchard.

Bouchard, coming off a breakthrough season that solidified his role as a key player in Edmonton’s blue line, finds himself at a critical juncture in his professional career. The talks of an extension are not just a routine contract matter—they symbolize the Oilers’ commitment to building a championship contender with Bouchard as a foundational piece.

This article dives deep into Friedman’s insights, the significance of Bouchard’s development, the broader context of the Oilers’ team strategy, and what a new contract could mean for both the player and the franchise moving forward.

Who Is Evan Bouchard?

Before exploring the contract talks, it’s important to understand the player at the center of the discussion. Evan Bouchard is a Canadian defenseman known for his offensive prowess, hockey IQ, and ability to control the play from the back end.

Drafted 10th overall by the Oilers in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, Bouchard was viewed as a player with significant upside but still developing his game at the NHL level. Over the past few seasons, he has made steady progress, gaining experience and confidence.

During the 2024-25 season, Bouchard emerged as a crucial contributor, not just defensively but offensively—especially during the playoffs, where his 23 points in 22 games helped the Oilers make a deep postseason run. His performance showcased his growth into a two-way defenseman capable of impacting the game in all areas.

Elliotte Friedman’s Take: Why Confidence Matters

Elliotte Friedman’s recent remarks on his popular “32 Thoughts” podcast revealed his belief that there is a strong mutual confidence between the Oilers and Bouchard’s camp about finalizing a long-term deal. Confidence in this context means that both sides believe an agreement that works for everyone is within reach.

Friedman highlighted that while the exact contract details aren’t finalized, the tone and atmosphere surrounding the negotiations are positive. This is an important signal, especially given how complex and delicate contract talks can be in the NHL, where salary cap considerations and player expectations must align.

Confidence in contract talks typically indicates:

• Good communication between the player’s agent and the team.

• Realistic and flexible negotiations on contract length and salary.

• Mutual desire to maintain a long-term relationship.

• Recognition of the player’s value and role on the team.

Why Bouchard’s Contract Extension Is Crucial for the Oilers

For the Edmonton Oilers, securing Evan Bouchard long-term is more than just retaining a talented player—it’s about safeguarding a key piece of their future. The Oilers have a core of elite forwards, led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, and are looking to bolster their defense to create a balanced team capable of competing for the Stanley Cup.

Bouchard’s ability to contribute offensively and defend effectively makes him a rare commodity. His presence allows the Oilers to control play in the defensive zone while generating offense, a combination that’s critical in today’s NHL.

An extension would provide:

• Roster Stability: Locking down a young defenseman solidifies the blue line for years.

• Cap Certainty: Knowing Bouchard’s contract terms helps the team plan around the salary cap.

• Building a Contender: A stable defense corps is essential for postseason success.

What the Contract Might Look Like

Based on Friedman’s commentary and insider speculation, the contract could span around four years with an average annual value (AAV) close to $9.5 million. While these figures are unofficial and subject to negotiation, they reflect Bouchard’s rising status as a top-tier NHL defenseman.

Factors influencing the contract include:

• Bouchard’s age and potential for further growth.

• Comparable contracts for defensemen of similar skill.

• The Oilers’ salary cap space and priorities.

• Bouchard’s desire for both financial security and team success.

Bouchard’s Perspective: A Player on the Rise

From Bouchard’s point of view, this contract extension represents an opportunity to cement his place in the NHL and secure his financial future. After proving himself in high-pressure playoff situations and regular-season games, Bouchard’s confidence has grown.

Players in his position often seek contracts that reward their performance while allowing room for continued development. The fact that Friedman senses optimism from Bouchard’s camp suggests that the player is content with Edmonton’s direction and is eager to continue contributing to the team’s success.

Impact on the Oilers’ Team Dynamics

A successful contract extension with Bouchard will have positive ripple effects throughout the Oilers organization. It sends a message to current and prospective players that the team is committed to retaining its core talent and building a competitive roster.

Additionally, it provides coach and management with a defined defensive structure around which to build tactics and game plans. This clarity is essential for maintaining consistency on the ice.

Challenges and Considerations in Negotiations

Contract talks at this level are rarely straightforward. Both sides must balance expectations and realities.

Challenges might include:

• Salary Cap Constraints: The NHL’s hard salary cap means every dollar committed to one player affects others.

• Contract Length: Balancing Bouchard’s desire for security with the team’s need for flexibility.

• Market Comparisons: Other NHL teams may set benchmarks influencing the contract’s value.

• Performance Clauses: Discussions around no-trade clauses or performance bonuses might arise.

What Happens If Talks Stall?

While Friedman’s confidence is encouraging, negotiations can always encounter hurdles. If the Oilers and Bouchard don’t reach an agreement before the start of the new NHL season or by the free agency window, various scenarios could unfold:

• Short-Term Bridge Deal: Bouchard might sign a shorter deal to buy time for further negotiation.

• Holdout or Holdback: Unlikely but possible if either party feels undervalued.

• Trade Considerations: Rare, but if talks break down badly, the Oilers could explore trading Bouchard’s rights.

However, given Friedman’s positive assessment, these scenarios seem less likely.

Fan and Media Reactions

Oilers fans have been eagerly awaiting news on Bouchard’s extension. The prospect of losing a player of his caliber would be a blow to the team’s Stanley Cup hopes. Media outlets have praised Bouchard’s development and highlighted the importance of a timely contract.

Friedman’s comments have generally been met with optimism, reinforcing faith in management’s ability to get the deal done.

Comparing Bouchard’s Situation to Other NHL Defensemen

Bouchard’s rising profile and contract talks are reflective of a broader trend in the NHL where young, offensively gifted defensemen are commanding premium contracts.

Comparisons to players like Cale Makar, Adam Fox, and Miro Heiskanen provide context for what the Oilers might offer. Bouchard’s mix of skill and leadership potential puts him in elite company.

The Bigger Picture: Edmonton’s Stanley Cup Aspirations

At the core of these negotiations lies Edmonton’s ultimate goal: winning the Stanley Cup. By securing Bouchard, the Oilers reinforce their commitment to surrounding McDavid and Draisaitl with top-tier talent on both ends of the ice.

This contract extension is not just about dollars and years—it’s about building a championship-caliber team.

Stan Bowman and Management’s Role

General Manager Stan Bowman and his staff have a track record of managing high-stakes contracts effectively. Their handling of Bouchard’s talks will be closely watched as an indicator of Edmonton’s organizational competence and vision.

Bowman’s approach has been transparent and player-focused, emphasizing respect for Bouchard’s timeline and needs, which bodes well for a positive outcome.

Elliotte Friedman’s sense of confidence in Evan Bouchard’s contract talks with the Edmonton Oilers is a positive sign for both the player and the franchise. It reflects good communication, mutual respect, and aligned ambitions.

For Bouchard, it’s a chance to solidify his place among the NHL’s elite defensemen and secure his future. For the Oilers, it’s a step closer to building a championship team around their superstar core.

As negotiations continue, fans can take heart in Friedman’s insights and hope for a timely, favorable agreement that keeps Bouchard in Edmonton for years to come.