gordonhught
Registered User
- Feb 18, 2009
- 14,427
- 13,349
"A lot of what was true of Bouchard’s game two years ago remains true now." - which is EXACTLY how I view him. The warts are still there and he definitely is an elite passer, has an knack for getting pucks on net, but is still kinda lead-footed. Bouchard will put up points in any league but he'll get burned for goals against with fast/strong forwards on the rush.
This was the writer's assessment in 2018
- Low-tempo player who does most of his creation when the game slows down in the offensive zone.
- Heavy-footed, below-average skater.
- Quietly productive, producing at an elite rate without ever really grabbing your attention with his skill set.
- Doesn’t force anything offensively, most often making the available play.
- Excellent outlet and seam passer.
- Not a dominant puck carrier.
- Can take too long to make his decisions.
- Often looks lethargic and lackadaisical — too stationary in his own zone, too often gliding and standing still when the play called for activity.
- Volume shot creator who can release from a wind-up slap shot or a snap-shot, both of which he keeps low and expertly places through traffic.
- Head always up.
- Not shy to join the play, despite lacking foot speed.
So like Cody Franson but a bit better in the offensive zone?