This teammate gave Bouchard his well-known slap shot moniker

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Sam Jones
May 25, 2024 (6:47)

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On October 20, 2018, a nickname was born in the halls of Edmonton Oilers lore when defenseman Evan Bouchard demonstrated his explosive point shot in his NHL debut.

It was Oilers forward Ryan McLeod who first dubbed this powerful strike the "Bouch Bomb," a term that has since become synonymous with Bouchard's playing style. This revelation about the origin of the nickname was shared in a tweet by McLeod, marking a memorable moment in Oilers history.

Bouchard's debut was more than just a first game; it was a showcase of what was to come. His shot, described as a bullet for its speed and power, caught the eye not only of fans but also his teammates, leading to McLeod's tweet that cemented the nickname.

After his initial stint with the Oilers, Bouchard was sent to play for the Bakersfield Condors in 2019. It was here that the "Bouch Bomb" nickname resurfaced, echoing through the arena as Bouchard tied a game against the Colorado Eagles, his reputation growing alongside his skills.

Bouchard has since developed into one of the NHL's most formidable offensive defensemen. His point shot, a key feature of his play, has made significant impacts, particularly in the power play where he has become a central figure for the Oilers. His performance in the playoffs has been outstanding, tallying five goals and 16 assists over 13 games, contributing significantly to the team's strategy on the ice.

With his current bridge deal nearing its end, Bouchard is anticipated to seek a significant pay raise. This poses a strategic challenge for the Oilers, who must also consider contract decisions for key players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The team's management faces tough decisions as they balance talent retention with salary cap constraints.

The "Bouch Bomb" is set to make more noise as the Oilers prepare for Game 2 on May 25th at 8:00 PM Eastern. This game presents another opportunity for Bouchard to add to his impressive playoff point total and continue his rise as a pivotal player in the Oilers' lineup. His journey from a promising rookie to an elite defenseman is a testament to his hard work and the explosive talent he brings to the ice every game.