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Elliotte Friedman Senses 'Confidence' in Evan Bouchard's Next Move

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Jun 30, 2025 9:04 AM ET

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard appears headed for a massive new contract with the franchise, whether or not he gets to the open market on July 1 or signs an extension before the start of free agency.

Speaking on Sunday's episode of Sportsnet's "32 Thoughts" podcast, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that both sides are moving toward a deal, and suggested a likely contract structure.

“There seemed to be a lot of confidence over the weekend that they’re gonna get this sorted out,” Friedman said. “I wonder if it’s gonna be around four times $9.5.

"Like, that’s just numbers that were being thrown around here. We’ll see.”

Post-draft 32 Thoughts podcast news, information and analysis.

Links to your preferred platform, here:https://t.co/io7Mr1QEpm Enjoy!
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) June 29, 2025

A four-year deal at $9.5 million annually would carry a total value of $38 million, representing a major jump from Bouchard’s previous two-year, $7.8 million contract, which he completed at the end of the 2024–25 season.

According to AFP Analytics, Bouchard is projected to sign a max contract worth $87 million spread over eight years with an annual cap hit just short of $10.9 million.

Friedman on Evan Bouchard extension (32TP): "There seems to be a lot of confidence over the weekend that they're going to get this sorted out. I wonder if it's going to be around 4x9.5, that was just numbers that were being thrown around here"
— NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) June 29, 2025

Bouchard, 25, was instrumental during Edmonton’s run to a second consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearance last season.

The blueliner finished the regular season with 67 points in 82 games while averaging more than 23 minutes a night. Already in the playoffs, Bouchard leveled up, providing the Oilers with 23 points in 22 games while logging over 26 minutes of average ice time.

Oilers general manager Stan Bowman acknowledged that negotiations have already begun with Bouchard when speaking to the media at the NHL draft on Saturday.

“We’ve begun the negotiations, that’s all I really want to say,” said Bowman. “I certainly think Bouch is a great player who had an excellent year. He’s a big part of this and we’re going to work through it."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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