Ken Daneyko has made it apparent where Edmonton’s top defenseman needs to get better as Evan Bouchard prepares for a difficult period with Mike Babcock.
Daneyko, who won the Stanley Cup three times with the New Jersey Devils, concentrated on Bouchard’s play without the puck while debating his standing among the NHL’s defensemen.
According to Daneyko, Bouchard was recently rated No. 10 among NHL defensemen, a spot that may actually understate his whole skill.
However, there is a reason he is aware of the ranking. Daneyko identified moments of missed assignments, defensive failures, and excessive room Bouchard may provide opponents in perilous locations.
“There are so many glaring errors or giveaways at times,” Daneyko said, placing the defensive concerns at the forefront of the conversation.
Since Edmonton has already come agonizingly close to completing the work, reaching the Stanley Cup Finals in both 2024 and 2025, the message carries more weight.
Bouchard needs to step it up, according to Daneyko.
Daneyko believes that the difference is not about altering what makes Bouchard dangerous with the puck. He desires greater attention to detail while defending and reading a developing play as a defenseman for Edmonton.
“I believe 10 may be a little low for him,” Daneyko continued, admitting Bouchard’s outstanding skill, which has made him an integral part of Edmonton’s blue line.
The combination produces the pressure. Edmonton needs those skills matched with steadier defense when games get tighter, but Bouchard is capable of directing play, moving the puck, and taking on significant offensive responsibilities.
Daneyko is aware of what championship-level specifics resemble. His criticism has a very particular frame since he won the Stanley Cup with New Jersey in 1995, 2000, and 2003.
For Babcock, that begs the question of what to keep an eye on. Bouchard doesn’t need to change as a player in Edmonton, but his choices when not in possession of the ball will always be watched closely.
Stan Bowman, the general manager, has already said that Bouchard is a crucial member of the Oilers, which highlights the amount of responsibility that rests on his shoulders.
Bouchard’s offensive prowess is not in doubt. The following hurdle is reducing the Oilers’ defensive mistakes, which opponents can quickly capitalize on when they’re pursuing the last move.
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