Babcock says Bouchard should contend for Norris every year
Edmonton’s coach praised the defenceman’s vision and passing while calling for greater competitiveness in his own end.
Mike Babcock believes Evan Bouchard should be a regular Norris Trophy contender, the Edmonton Oilers coach told Sportsnet in a report published Thursday, Oct. 8. He praised the defenceman’s ability to read plays and move the puck, while saying his defensive competitiveness still has room to improve.
Babcock said working with Bouchard had changed his assessment of the player’s talent. He has discussed the next steps with the defenceman and said Bouchard was already making progress in that part of his game.
"There's no question he should be in running for the Norris every year," Babcock said.
Leon Draisaitl also praised Bouchard’s decisions with the puck and disputed the way his teammate is viewed around the league, according to Sportsnet.
Bouchard, 26, has six goals and five assists through Edmonton’s first four games. He recorded two goals, an assist and a plus-four rating in Wednesday’s 5-2 win at Anaheim.
Babcock said Bouchard’s skill, pride and willingness to improve give him the opportunity to develop further.
