MAIN CAMP: Bouchard shines at open scrimmage

EDMONTON, AB - It was a good day for Evan Bouchard.

The Oilers 2018 first-round selection shined at the Oilers open scrimmage held at Downtown Community Arena, scoring two goals, two assists and adding a shootout marker just for fun before exiting the ice.

"I felt good out there," said the defenceman.

"Coming off those rookie games, I wanted to improve my game coming into this. I did that today. Team White as a whole had a good game all around." 

Video: MAIN CAMP | Evan Bouchard 09.15.19

Bouchard's offensive ability was on display but there were other areas of his game that he wanted to showcase.

"This summer, I worked on quickness," Bouchard said. "Defence is a huge part of the game today. I want to show that I can do stuff on both ends of the ice."

The rearguard made quite the impression on the members of Oilers management who were evaluating.

"He finds a way to create opportunities, not just for himself, but for teammates," said Oilers Head Coach Dave Tippett. 

"He had four points today and was pretty solid defensively."

Video: MAIN CAMP | Scrimmage Highlights 09.15.19

Tippett said he has a long list of players he would like to evaluate as Main Camp carries on. Bouchard is on that list and will get an opportunity to show what he can do when Edmonton's pre-season schedule commences on Monday.

"The next step for him is an exhibition game and we'll get a look at that tomorrow night," said Tippett.

Bouchard, meanwhile, just wants to continue elevating his play as best he can.

"Everyone here is fighting for a job," said the 19-year-old. 

"If you want to stay here, you got to take somebody's job. That's my mindset. As long as you can focus on what you can control, and that's how you play, it'll go fine."