Oilers extend qualifying offers to five pending RFAs including Bouchard, McLeod

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard follows through on his overtime goal against the Colorado Avalanche in an NHL hockey game Tuesday, April 11, 2023, in Denver. (David Zalubowski/AP)

The Edmonton Oilers have announced that they have extended qualifying offers to all five of their pending restricted free agents Thursday.

Most notable amongst the group includes defenceman Evan Bouchard, as well as forward Ryan McLeod.

Bouchard, 23, is coming off back-to-back 40-point seasons with the Oilers and has been a bright spot for the club on the back end. The 2018 first-round selection is reportedly expected to eventually sign a short-term bridge contract.

McLeod, taken in the second round of the 2018 draft, had 23 points in 57 games for Edmonton in a largely depth role. The two-way pivot also collected a career high 11 goals for the Oilers last season.

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