Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard should be in for a big 2023-24 season.

After a strong 2022-23 season and excellent postseason, Evan Bouchard earned a two-year, $7.8 million ($3.9 AAV) contract from the Edmonton Oilers this summer. His hefty raise was warranted, and now he is looking to continue to improve. 

Although the 2022-23 season was a successful one for Bouchard, he should take another major step forward for the Oilers in 2023-24. Let's dive into why.

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First off, Bouchard displayed elite potential during the 2023 playoffs for the Oilers. The 2018 10th overall pick dominated offensively, scoring four goals and posting 17 points in 12 games played. His 17 playoff points also led all NHL defensemen.

Seeing a 23-year-old Bouchard produce so frequently in the playoffs is very noteworthy. It is the most difficult part of the season, and it is hard to believe that he will not build off it in 2023-24 because of it.

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Bouchard is also in a grand position to succeed this season. After trading Tyson Barrie before the deadline passed, it opened the door for Bouchard to receive bigger power-play minutes. Heading into this season, Bouchard does not have much competition for the top power play spot, either. Due to this, he is going to spend a lot of time with franchise talents Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. This should naturally lead to his production increasing.

It is going to be a lot of fun watching Bouchard this season. All signs are pointing to him having a career-best season, so let's see what the Oilers defenseman does in 2023-24 from here. 

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