Bouchard_Combine

BUFFALO - Here are excerpts of prospect Evan Bouchard's scrum with reporters on Friday afternoon at the 2018 NHL Scouting Combine at HarborCenter.

How do you feel you've grown as a leader?
EVAN BOUCHARD:As a leader, I think just trying to lead by example on the ice, especially with the young guys and the new guys coming in, making sure they know London (OHL) has a winning mentality. Once you have that in your head and once you understand the coaching staff and stuff like that, you'll be good.
How soon do you think you can help an NHL team?
EB: For me, I think it's next season. I know it's a big jump and it's a big step, but I'm really working hard this summer to be ready for next season and take things one step at a time. The main goal is to focus on getting ready for main camp and turning heads there and going from there.
What do you think you need to work on?
EB:The game keeps getting faster and faster. I think speed's a big thing and you're going from playing against teenagers to men. I think size is also a big thing.

What do you feel is the advantage of being a right-handed D?
EB: There aren't too many right-handed defensemen out there. But, I don't think the hand matters too much anymore. I think if you're a skilled defenseman, you can play both sides.
What's your biggest strength as a player?
EB: I think my vision, puck movement as well as shot.
How did you prepare for this week as far as the physical testing goes?
EB: It's sort of the same as usual, tweaked some things to get ready for the bike test and some of the physical testing. I changed a little stuff up, but not too much.
Is it important for you to be the second defenseman selected after Rasmus?
EB: It would be exciting for that to happen, but I think in the NHL it doesn't really matter what number you get called. The real work starts after that. It would be an honor to hear my name whenever.
What does leadership mean to you?
EB:Someone that's going to make his teammates better, push your teammates. Just being positive is one of the big things.
You and Victor Mete played together in London. Are you familiar with the success he had this year?
EB:Yes, big time. He's a good friend of mine. I was following his process and his steps.
Would you like to play with him some day?
EB: Yes, I'd love to play with Victor. He's a good friend of mine.
How was your meeting with the Canadiens?
EB: It was a good meeting. They try to get to know you. I think that's the main thing, they get to know what kind of player they're getting.
Can you expand a bit on your relationship with Victor? How close do you two keep in touch?
EB: We talk a couple of times a week. He was my driver for two years while he was in London. We really got to know each other. I saw him once this summer already. I plan to see him again.