On This Day in 2018: Edmonton Oilers Landed Evan Bouchard With 10th Overall Pick, Forever Changing Their Blue Line Future

June 23, 2018, marked a significant turning point for the Edmonton Oilers franchise. With the 10th overall pick in the 2018 NHL Draft, the Oilers selected defenseman Evan Bouchard from the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). At the time, the selection was met with optimism and anticipation as Bouchard was heralded as one of the most offensively gifted defensemen available in that year’s draft class.

For an Edmonton organization that had long struggled to solidify its blue line, the selection of Bouchard represented more than just another highly touted prospect—it symbolized hope for a more balanced and competitive future. Fast forward to today, and it’s clear that the Oilers’ decision to draft Bouchard has paid dividends, as he has developed into a cornerstone of their defense corps and a key contributor during the team’s resurgence as a Western Conference powerhouse.

At the time of the draft, the Oilers were coming off a frustrating 2017-18 season in which they missed the playoffs despite having one of the league’s brightest stars in Connor McDavid. Defensive lapses and inconsistent play from the blue line were widely regarded as one of the primary factors holding the team back. Edmonton’s management and fans alike understood that addressing the defense was paramount if the team was going to capitalize on McDavid’s prime years and return to contention.

Evan Bouchard entered the draft as the captain of the London Knights, known for his poise, maturity, and elite offensive instincts from the back end. His ability to quarterback the power play, deliver crisp breakout passes, and contribute offensively made him a coveted asset for teams looking to bolster their blue line with modern, puck-moving defenders.

Standing 6-foot-3 and possessing a right-handed shot, Bouchard’s skill set filled a critical need for Edmonton. His 2017-18 season with the Knights was particularly impressive, as he amassed 87 points in 67 games—a remarkable feat for a defenseman in major junior hockey. Scouts praised his vision, hockey IQ, and calm demeanor under pressure, characteristics that projected him as a potential top-pairing defenseman in the NHL.

In the immediate aftermath of the selection, Oilers General Manager Peter Chiarelli emphasized the organization’s excitement about adding Bouchard, stating, “We believe Evan brings exactly what we’ve been looking for on the blue line. His ability to move the puck, create offense, and contribute in all situations will be a tremendous asset to our team moving forward.”

Bouchard’s NHL journey, like that of many young defensemen, required patience and development. After being drafted, he attended Oilers training camp and made his NHL debut during the 2018-19 season. Though he showed flashes of his offensive capabilities, Edmonton wisely chose to return him to the OHL to continue refining his game and building confidence.

Back with the London Knights, Bouchard continued to dominate, eventually being named OHL Defenseman of the Year and earning a spot on Canada’s World Junior Championship team. His steady progression was a testament to his work ethic and maturity—qualities that have since become hallmarks of his professional career.

Bouchard’s transition to the NHL became more permanent during the pandemic-shortened 2020-21 season. Despite the unusual circumstances, he showcased his skill set with strong puck-moving ability, smart positioning, and offensive contributions from the blue line. His performances quickly earned the trust of Edmonton’s coaching staff and laid the foundation for what would become a breakout stretch in the following seasons.

By the 2022-23 campaign, Bouchard was firmly entrenched as a key piece of the Oilers’ defensive puzzle. His ability to generate offense, quarterback the power play, and log significant minutes solidified his role as a top-four defenseman. He played a crucial role during the team’s deep playoff runs, proving himself under the high-pressure environment of postseason hockey.

Bouchard’s impact extended beyond the stat sheet. His calm presence, hockey sense, and ability to control the pace of play brought much-needed stability to Edmonton’s blue line—a factor that many believe helped unlock the team’s full potential. His chemistry with star forwards like McDavid and Leon Draisaitl made the Oilers’ transition game and offensive zone setups even more dangerous, while his growing defensive acumen rounded out his overall game.

Perhaps one of the defining moments of Bouchard’s early career came during the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Tasked with elevated responsibilities, he delivered a stellar performance, notching key points and displaying poise beyond his years. His contributions were instrumental in the Oilers advancing deep into the postseason, reigniting hopes of bringing a championship back to Oil Country.

As of today, Bouchard has firmly established himself as one of the NHL’s premier young defensemen. His combination of size, skill, and hockey IQ positions him as a foundational piece for Edmonton’s long-term success. In many ways, his development reflects the broader evolution of the Oilers—a team once heavily reliant on individual offensive brilliance, now becoming a more complete, balanced contender.

The 2018 draft, in retrospect, has proven to be a pivotal moment for the franchise. While other top picks from that year have made their marks, Edmonton’s selection of Bouchard stands out for how seamlessly he has integrated into the team’s identity and aspirations. His presence on the blue line has addressed one of the organization’s most pressing needs, giving the Oilers the type of dynamic, reliable defenseman they lacked for much of the previous decade.

Moreover, Bouchard’s growth highlights the importance of patience and proper development. Rather than rushing him into a role he wasn’t ready for, the Oilers allowed him to mature at his own pace, ensuring that when he arrived in the NHL full-time, he was equipped to handle the demands of the league. That approach has paid off handsomely, with Bouchard now playing significant minutes in all situations, contributing offensively, and continuing to improve defensively.

Looking ahead, the future remains bright for both Bouchard and the Oilers. With the core of McDavid, Draisaitl, and Bouchard leading the way, Edmonton is positioned to remain a perennial contender in the Western Conference. The experience gained from deep playoff runs, combined with the continued development of their young talent, has fans dreaming of an elusive Stanley Cup return to Northern Alberta.

For Bouchard personally, the sky is the limit. His trajectory suggests the potential for Norris Trophy consideration down the line, especially as he continues to refine his defensive game and build upon his offensive prowess. His leadership, both on and off the ice, has already begun to emerge, making him not just a top player, but a cornerstone of the team’s culture.

On this anniversary of the 2018 NHL Draft, it’s fitting to reflect on how far Bouchard—and the Oilers—have come. What began as a hopeful selection with the 10th overall pick has blossomed into a success story that underscores the value of smart drafting, patient development, and building from the blue line out.

Edmonton’s gamble on Evan Bouchard wasn’t just about filling a positional need—it was about investing in a player with the potential to change the course of the franchise. Today, that investment is paying off, with Bouchard standing tall as one of the league’s most promising defensemen and a symbol of the Oilers’ ongoing quest for hockey glory.