Evan Bouchard signs two-year, $7.8M contract extension with Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers finalized a two-year, $7.8-million contract with defenceman Evan Bouchard, the team announced on Thursday.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman first reported the deal on Wednesday.

Bouchard’s deal will carry a $3.9-million cap hit.

The 23-year-old had eight goals and 40 points in 82 games while averaging 18:31 of ice time per game last season for the Oilers. Bouchard saw his role increase in the Stanley Cup Playoffs and it paid off with 17 points in 12 games while averaging an even 23:00 of ice time per game.

Bouchard has put up 40 or more points in back-to-back seasons as he benefited from an increased role on the power play after the departure of Tyson Barrie.