Evan Bouchard enters a demanding stretch under Mike Babcock, and Ken Daneyko has made it clear where Edmonton's top defenseman must improve.
Daneyko, a three-time Stanley Cup champion with the New Jersey Devils, focused directly on Bouchard's work without the puck while discussing his standing among the NHL's defensemen.
Bouchard was recently ranked No. 10 among NHL defensemen, a position Daneyko believes may actually undersell his overall ability.
But there's a reason he understands the ranking. Daneyko pointed toward defensive breakdowns, missed assignments and moments where Bouchard can give opponents too much room around dangerous areas.
“There's so many at times glaring errors or giveaways,” Daneyko said, putting the defensive concerns at the center of the discussion.
The message carries extra weight because Edmonton has already come painfully close to finishing the job, reaching the Stanley Cup Final in both 2024 and 2025.
Daneyko wants another level from Bouchard
For Daneyko, the difference isn't about changing what makes Bouchard dangerous with the puck. He wants more attention to detail when Edmonton's defenseman has to read and defend a developing play.
“I think 10 might be a little low for him,” Daneyko added, acknowledging the high-end ability that has made Bouchard such an important piece on Edmonton's blue line.
That combination creates the pressure. Bouchard can drive play, move the puck and handle major offensive responsibility, but Edmonton needs those strengths paired with steadier defending when games tighten.
Daneyko knows what championship-level details look like. He won the Stanley Cup with New Jersey in 1995, 2000 and 2003, giving his criticism a very specific frame.
For Babcock, that leaves an obvious area to monitor. Edmonton doesn't need Bouchard to become a different player, but his decisions without the puck will remain under a microscope.
General manager Stan Bowman has already described Bouchard as an important part of the Oilers, reinforcing just how much responsibility sits on his shoulders.
Bouchard's offensive talent isn't the question. The next challenge is cutting down the defensive mistakes that opponents can turn into immediate chances when the Oilers are chasing the final step.
Does Evan Bouchard need to become much better defensively for Edmonton to win the Stanley Cup?
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