Evan Bouchard‘s overtime goal against the Ottawa Senators has intensified his Norris Trophy candidacy as the Edmonton Oilers continue their push in the Pacific Division playoff race. His standout performances this season have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike in a heated NHL defenseman competition.
Bouchard’s Decisive Goal Highlights His Rising Stardom Among NHL Defensemen
<pThe Edmonton Oilers secured a vital overtime victory over the Senators, with Evan Bouchard scoring the game-winning goal, further cementing his role as a key contributor on defense. Heading into March, Bouchard leads all NHL defensemen in total points this season, boasting 71 points—six points ahead of second-place Zach Werenski. His consistent impact on the league’s leading power play unit has been a critical part of Edmonton’s success.
The winning goal emerged during a dominant night from Leon Draisaitl, who posted two goals and three assists. Draisaitl earned a secondary assist on Bouchard’s goal, which capped off a comeback despite the Oilers trailing by two goals in the third period.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins sparked the comeback by cutting the lead to 4-3 early in the third period. Later, Zach Hyman tied the game with just 1:25 remaining in regulation by finishing off a backdoor pass from Draisaitl while the Oilers were using an extra attacker. This sequence forced overtime, where Bouchard ultimately sealed the win with a power-play goal.
Player and Analyst Praise Elevate Bouchard’s Norris Trophy Consideration
Leon Draisaitl publicly acknowledged Bouchard’s exceptional impact, stating,
“As good as it gets in the league, you know, he’s up there with the Makars, the Hughes, he does it his way. It might not be as flashy as those guys, but he gets it done, and he is one of the best defensemen in the league. Has been for a few years now, and obviously, this year I think he’s taking another step, which, yeah, is amazing to see.”
—Leon Draisaitl, Edmonton Oilers Center
The conversation has also gained traction among analysts and former players. Ryan Whitney, a former NHL player and analyst, tweeted,
“Bouch bomb! Norris finalist or we riot. 2 points out of first place in the Pacific. What a comeback. Stauff called what needed to happen during second intermission and that’s a big win #LetsGoOilers.”
—Ryan Whitney, NHL Analyst
Former defenseman Jason Demers also weighed in, sharing,
“Ok everybody, I agree it’s time we all sit down and have the Bouchard for Norris conversation. It’s becoming undeniable, and if you vehemently disagree with even considering the possibility. You don’t watch enough Edmonton Oilers games.”
—Jason Demers, Former NHL Defenseman
Standing Among Elite Defensemen in a Competitive Norris Trophy Race
Bouchard faces competition from top-tier defensemen like Cale Makar, Quinn Hughes, and Zach Werenski in this year’s Norris Trophy discussion. Montreal’s Lane Hutson also remains a formidable contender with 59 points, narrowing the gap in offensive production among defense players.
The Oilers, holding a 30-24-8 record, remain solidly positioned in the Pacific Division playoff hunt. Bouchard’s consistent individual excellence strengthens his profile as the regular season advances into its crucial final stretch. His ability to influence games both at even strength and on special teams could prove decisive in the Norris Trophy race and help Edmonton sustain its quest for postseason qualification.
With the Oilers amid a tightly contested divisional competition, Bouchard’s high-level contributions underscore his importance to the team and amplify anticipation about his chances to win the NHL’s top defenseman award for the first time in his career.
Oilers Leon Draisaitl says Bouchard is a great defenceman.#LetsGoOilers #Oilers #NHL #Hockey #germany
📹 @edmontonoilers pic.twitter.com/YV9ptGKzRD— Bleed Oil Blue (@BleedOilBlue) March 4, 2026
Bouch bomb! Norris finalist or we riot. 2 points out of first place in the pacific. What a comeback. Stauff called what needed to happen during second intermission and that’s a big win #LetsGoOilers
— Ryan Whitney (@ryanwhitney6) March 4, 2026
Ok everybody I agree it’s time we all sit down and have the Bouchard for Norris conversation. It’s becoming undeniable, and if you vehemently disagree with even considering the possibility. You don’t watch enough Edmonton Oilers games.
— jason demers (@jasondemers5) March 4, 2026
