Bouchard's historic start for Oilers has impressed Babcock

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Evan Bouchard's historic start for Oilers has impressed Mike Babcock

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Oct 8, 2026 2:43 PM ET

Following Evan Bouchard's historic early season start for the Edmonton Oilers, new head coach Mike Babcock openly admitted to reporters, ''I didn't know he was this good.''

His offensive spark caught Babcock by surprise, as he was impressed with his talent and strong puck movement. His hot start has been undeniable, as the elite 26-year-old offensive defenseman has six goals and five assists for a total of 11 points across four games that rank him second in the NHL. His six goals also rank first, and his five assists are tied for sixth.

Bouchard became the first defenseman in NHL history to record five points in a season opener, including a hat trick against the Vancouver Canucks on Sept. 29.

In addition, his six goals across four games make him only the second defenseman in NHL history to score at least six goals through the first four games of a season, trailing only Harry Cameron, who had eight for the Toronto Arenas in 1917-18.

His elite production allowed him to be in rare company as only the fifth defenseman in NHL history to produce at least 10 points through the first four games of the season. Bouchard's recent performance had him notch two goals and an assist in Wednesday's victory over the Anaheim Ducks.

Evan Bouchard has exceeded Mike Babcock’s expectations four games into the season https://t.co/N5d2Lgpf5p
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) October 8, 2026

Mike Babcock's high praise for Evan Bouchard has been paired with a tough coaching style

Babcock has also credited him as deserving to be in the running for the Norris Trophy.

''There's no question he should be in the running for the Norris every year. He's that good," Babcock said.

However, despite his explosive output that's been garnished with lingering praise, Babcock has continued to be firm with Bouchard and has challenged him by stating that ''Bouch can be way better'' in order to spark a competitive drive in him.

While Bouchard's success has been a bright spot for the team, Babcock made it clear that the whole team has to contribute following a tough opening-night loss. Babcock emphasized how the offense has to be distributed in order for the team to have a better chance of winning games.

"He had a good night, but you can't have a guy with five points and lose the hockey game. It just doesn't make any sense,'' Babcock stated.

Babcock's demanding tone and meticulous coaching have already made an impact, driving the team to a critical second-period surge against the Ducks, where Bouchard scored 11 seconds into the frame to spark a five-goal rally that led to a 5-2 comeback victory.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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