Oilers’ Evan Bouchard Builds Strong Case for Norris Trophy

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20 March 2026 at 00:33

Evan Bouchard has built a strong case for the Norris Trophy with a standout 2025–26 NHL season.

The Edmonton Oilers defenseman continues to drive play from the blue line with elite production. He has five points in his last five games, helping the Oilers win three, lose one in overtime, and drop one in regulation.

If we take the whole season, Bouchard leads all NHL defensemen in scoring with 78 points in 69 games. His tally includes 19 goals and 59 assists, underlining his value as a playmaker. He also contributes heavily on the power play, recording 30 points with the man advantage. His +20 rating shows growth in his overall game, not just offense.

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So, analysts have started to push his Norris case more strongly. Speaking during a Sportsnet segment recently, Bob Stauffer highlighted how Bouchard’s impact often goes beyond simple highlights.

“Think about that for a second, and the Oilers lost 9-1 [to the Avala n che in early November],” Stauffer said. “But since then, Edmonton’s played 53 games, Bouchard has 68 points, he’s plus-31 since that game on a team that doesn’t have a goalie with a .900 save percentage.

“And of the elites in the league, the top 10 defensemen in the league, the only one that plays more on the penalty kill is [Miro] Heiskanen down in Dallas.”

Stauffer pointed out that while turnovers get attention, Bouchard’s subtle puck movement drives success. His ability to make quick, smart plays sets him apart.

“But it’s the subtlety in which he makes the plays,” Stauffer said. “And he’s probably, you know, you guys are in a Toronto market that booed Larry Murphy out of town.

“Larry Murphy played 1,600 games in the NHL, had 1,200 points, and is a Hall of Fame defenseman. And I think that’s probably the D-man closest to Bouchard. And sometimes there’s a subtlety in defenders like that – that make the puck do the work.”

Evan Bouchard is ahead of Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Mattias Ekholm (14) and defenseman Evan Bouchard (2) and right wing Vasily Podkolzin (92) at the American Airlines Center

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Mattias Ekholm (14), defenseman Evan Bouchard (2), and right wing Vasily Podkolzin (92) at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Among top defensemen, Bouchard stands ahead of names like Zachary Werenski (69 points), Cale Makar (69 points), Lane Hutson (69 points), and Quinn Hughes (67 points) in total points.

Bouchard’s offensive zone control and shooting ability are at another level this season. He also handles penalty-kill duties, showing trust from the coaching staff.

There are still areas to refine, especially in defensive decision-making. However, his overall impact remains undeniable. Bouchard has emerged as a complete offensive force from the back end.

If the Oilers maintain their push, his candidacy will only grow stronger. This season has placed him firmly among the league’s elite defensemen.