The Edmonton Oilers are breathing a sigh of relief as they reflect on a potential trade that never materialized: swapping Evan Bouchard for Mikko Rantanen. In retrospect, keeping Bouchard appears to be the wiser decision, considering his evolution into an elite defenseman and Rantanen's departure from the Avalanche.
At the NHL trade deadline in March 2025, the Oilers and Carolina Hurricanes discussed a potential deal involving Rantanen. According to reports, the Hurricanes' asking price was Evan Bouchard. The Oilers ultimately declined, a decision that, with the benefit of hindsight, seems increasingly astute.
Mikko Rantanen, a right winger, was drafted 10th overall by the Colorado Avalanche in 2015. Before being traded, Rantanen made a significant impact with the Avalanche, amassing 291 goals and 399 assists for 690 points through 634 games. In January 2025, the Avalanche traded Rantanen to the Carolina Hurricanes. The Hurricanes then traded Rantanen to the Dallas Stars, who signed him to an eight-year, $96 million contract.
Evan Bouchard, a right-shooting defenseman, was drafted 10th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in 2018. The 26-year-old has become a cornerstone of the Oilers' defense, known for his offensive capabilities and improving defensive play. This season, Bouchard has tallied 14 goals and 41 assists in 53 games. On January 25, 2026, Bouchard had a standout performance in his 400th NHL game, scoring his first career hat trick and adding three assists in a 6-5 win over the Washington Capitals. His six-point game placed him in elite company, joining Bobby Orr, Tom Bladon, and Doug Crossman as the only defensemen in NHL history to achieve such a feat.
Oilers captain Connor McDavid praised Bouchard, stating, "As good a game as I've seen from a D-man. Special...His best is among the best in the world. Not just D-men. Players". Bouchard's defensive partner, Mattias Ekholm, noted the significance of his performance, saying, "That's a game where he wins it for us, really".
While Rantanen is a star in his own right, the Oilers' decision to retain Bouchard has proven beneficial. Bouchard's offensive output from the blue line and his growth as a defenseman make him a valuable asset. Moreover, the Oilers' defensive group was considered weak at the time of the potential trade, making it sensible to hold onto Bouchard.
In the end, the Oilers' reluctance to part with Bouchard demonstrates the importance of patience and belief in player development. As Evan Bouchard continues to excel, the Oilers can confidently say they are happy they never made the Bouchard-for-Rantanen trade.
