Connor McDavid Defends Controversial Teammate Evan Bouchard in Postgame Interview

The Edmonton Oilers have been off to an up-and-down start in 2025/26, and while they've won some big games, it's easy to see that they aren't at the level we've seen them at in recent years.

One player that should be standing up and performing around this young team is defenseman Evan Bouchard, but to this point, the offensive minded defenseman has just two goals in 13 games, while often displaying very questionable play at the other end.

One player that won't stand for any Bouchard slander is his captain Connor McDavid, who called out people criticizing Bouchard, stating just how much this team loves him in the locker room and on the ice.

McDavid points to Bouchard's best being among the best in the NHL, and while that's true, it's hard to deny that we simply haven't seen that early in the 2025/26 season, especially on this play and ones like it.

Clearly, the blunders aren't only a Bouchard issue, as we've seen plenty of other veterans on this team make mistakes, and early in the year, the team are in full support of him as they look to work their way back into Stanley Cup form.

With a 6-4-3 record through 13 games played, the Oilers are showing why many consider them a Stanley Cup favourite, and while McDavid can excuse the blunders from Bouchard, if they keep up all season long, it may be a major issue for this team.