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NHL · Coaching · published 2026-10-08T00:00:00+00:00 · via Gino Hard

Babcock Praises Bouchard's Start, Says Oilers Defenseman Can Improve

Image via Gino Hard
Image via Gino Hard

Oilers coach Mike Babcock said Evan Bouchard has impressed him more than expected through the first four games. Babcock added that Bouchard can still get better defensively and should be a perennial Norris Trophy contender. Bouchard scored twice and added an assist in Edmonton's comeback win over Anaheim, giving him six goals and 11 points early in the season.

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Babcock said Bouchard exceeded expectations over four games, praising his talent, playmaking, and puck movement. He still sees defensive growth and thinks Bouchard should contend for the Norris yearly. Against Anaheim, Bouchard had two goals and an assist in a five-goal second period that erased a 2-0 deficit. He has six goals and 11 points in four games, one behind Connor McDavid.

Bouchard led NHL defensemen with 95 points last season but finished fourth in Norris voting; he has two top-five finishes without being a finalist. He is in year two of a

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This summary is Al-enhanced to contain extended analysis and broader social context. The original is {NAME); the linked article is the authoritative source. Original headline: “Mike Babcock on Evan Bouchard: ‘I Didn’t Know He Was This Good’.” Browse more stories.