Oilers’ Bouchard pots first hat trick by a defenceman in season opener since 1980

Evan Bouchard didn't waste any time showcasing his offensive talent. The Edmonton Oilers defenceman notched a hat trick in Tuesday's season opener against the visiting Vancouver Canucks. It marked the first hat trick for any NHL defenceman in a season opener since Mark Howe accomplished the feat with the Hartford Whalers way back in 1980. Bouchard capped the hat trick midway through the third period, cutting Vancouver's lead to 5-4 and causing a short break as arena staff picked up all the hats thrown by fans. Bouchard then notched his second assist of the night on Vasily Podkolzin's tying goal...