The implications of Brock Faber's contract on Evan Bouchard's future
Yesterday's announcement that Minnesota Wild rookie defenseman Brock Faber inked an eight-year, $68 million contract extension. This has stirred significant conversation within the Edmonton Oilers management, particularly concerning Evan Bouchard's future with the team.
With Faber's deal setting a precedent, questions hover over what this might mean for Bouchard as he approaches the end of his two-year bridge deal with the Oilers.
According to sources, Bouchard's present contract, a modest two-year agreement worth $7,000,000, is dwarfed by Faber's new terms, which boast an $8.5 million cap hit per season. Faber's contract is particularly notable given his relatively short NHL tenure, having played only 84 games. The hefty contract has given the Oilers' Jeff Jackson much to consider.
In terms of performance, comparing Faber and Bouchard directly might not paint a complete picture. Faber, in his rookie season, has made an impressive mark with eight goals, 39 assists, and 47 points, logging the highest ice time among rookies this year at 24 minutes and 58 seconds.
On the flip side, Bouchard has been nothing short of stellar for the Oilers. Over the last season, he participated in 81 games, delivering 18 goals and 64 assists, totalling 82 points. His performance was highlighted by a +34 rating and an average of 23 minutes on the ice per game. Bouchard's playoff contributions were also significant, scoring six goals and 20 assists in 25 games, bringing his team tantalizingly close to a Stanley Cup victory with a +14 rating. «https://x.com/Bob_Stauffer/status/1815409363005120554».
The Oilers are now facing crucial decisions regarding several key players' contracts, with Bouchard and Leon Draisaitl being top priorities. This negotiation phase is critical as the team must balance their salary cap while attempting to secure Bouchard's long-term commitment, who has proven himself to be a cornerstone of the franchise.
The big question remains: Are the Oilers ready to commit over $10 million a season to Bouchard? This scenario requires strategic cap management from Jackson and General Manager Stan Bowman to ensure the team remains competitive while securing its core talent for the future.
As the Oilers deliberate on these pivotal contracts, the ripple effects of Faber's deal are set to reshape their approach to player negotiations and team dynamics in the upcoming seasons.
| POLL | ||
How much will Evan Bouchard's next deal cost the Oilers? | ||
| Yes | 17 | 85 % |
| No | 3 | 15 % |
| List of polls | ||
