Bouchard's Norris Race: Offense vs. Oilers' Defense

0:00For the NHL, it's March 4th. Here's what's happening. Evan Bouchard of the Eminton Oilers is having a monster season, leading all NHL defensemen with 71 points in 62 games. That's on pace for 85 points, one of the best totals in decades. But his team's shaky defense has folks wondering if it will keep him out of the Norris trophy race. Earlier this week, the Oilers traded for veteran defensemen Conor Murphy from Chicago to shore up the back end. General manager Stan Bowman might chase another blue liner before Friday's trade deadline, as Edmonton has struggled to keep pucks out of their net. Oilers fans point to the defense as the biggest roadblock to a deep playoff run. After a thrilling overtime win against Ottawa on Tuesday, former NHLer Jason Demers tweeted that it's time to seriously talk Bouchard for Norris. Bouchard set up the tie-and-goal late and won it with a rocket shot. Digging into the numbers, he's tied for fourth among defensemen with 18 goals, second in power playpoints, and even boasts a plus 18.

1:03Rating with top 10 takeaways and plenty of block shots, he stacks up well against stars like Hail McCarr and Quinn Hughes. Meanwhile, despite pairing with weaker partners, Bouchard keeps producing while the Oilers eye the top spot in the Pacific Division. Voters will have to decide if his offense outweighs the team's flaws come award time. D&N is brought to you by our sponsor. When you want calm, do not reach for your phone, lay back and listen. N-S-O-L-I-SOLYPILO.COM.