Oilers GM Reveals Truth About Unexpected Evan Bouchard Contract Decision originally appeared on Athlon Sports. After completing a two-year deal expiring on July 1, the Edmonton Oilers wanted to lock in defenseman Evan Bouchard for the long haul.

The Edmonton Oilers have re-signed Evan Bouchard to a new four-year contract. Now we grade the deal for both the player and the franchise.

That summer, now-Oilers GM Stan Bowman acquired and signed Seth Jones to a massive long-term deal in Chicago. Zach Werenski got the same treatment in Columbus. Both got at least $9.5 million per season. The die was cast for the Oilers when it came to keeping Nurse.