Oilers ink Bouchard to two-year deal

Young defenseman signs $7.8 million contract extension

Bouchard has emerged as a key piece of Edmonton's blue line

The Edmonton Oilers have signed defenseman Evan Bouchard to a two-year, $7.8 million contract extension, the team announced Wednesday.

Bouchard, 23, is coming off a breakout season in which he scored 12 goals and added 29 assists in 63 games. He also played a key role in Edmonton's run to the Western Conference Final, averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game.

The Oilers have high hopes for Bouchard, who they believe can be a top-pairing defenseman. He is a skilled puck-mover with a good shot and is also solid defensively.

Bouchard's new contract will pay him $3.9 million in each of the next two seasons. He is set to become a restricted free agent in 2024.

The Oilers are hoping that Bouchard can continue to develop and become a key part of their team for years to come.