As the offseason unfolds, the Edmonton Oilers and star player Leon Draisaitl are at the forefront of NHL discussions. Draisaitl is poised to negotiate a contract extension with the Oilers beginning on July 1, which has fans and analysts eager to speculate about his future. His commitment to the team and his performance have made him a central figure in the Oilers’ aspirations, especially after their heart-wrenching loss in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final. Despite the disappointment, Draisaitl’s dedication to playing for Edmonton shines through as he openly expresses his affection for the team.

NHL Rumors: Will Leon Draisaitl Commit to the Edmonton Oilers for the Long Haul?

During a recent media engagement, Draisaitl shared his thoughts on the process ahead, stating, “It’s going to take a little time to figure out what I want, what the Oilers want, what everyone wants and go from there. I love being an Oiler more than anything.” His words reflect not only his passion for the game but also the complexities involved in contract negotiations. With Jeff Jackson stepping in for Ken Holland, securing Draisaitl’s future with the Oilers is now a top priority, especially with the expected rise in the salary cap.

As the salary cap is anticipated to increase, the Oilers find themselves in a favorable position financially, allowing them to explore various contract structures. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the salary cap has been significant, limiting many teams’ capabilities to operate effectively. However, projections indicate that by the time Draisaitl’s new extension commences, the cap could reach the low $90 million range. This situation will also coincide with Connor McDavid‘s contract negotiations, which could push the cap upwards to around $100 million when his new deal takes effect.

NHL Rumors: What Changes Are Ahead for the Oilers’ General Management?

At this juncture, the pressing question revolves around the financial terms of Draisaitl’s next contract. Analysts from TSN, including Ryan Rishaug and Craig Button, have weighed in on the potential figures. Rishaug noted, “There are two key aspects to consider: will he sign, and what will the financial implications be?” Button projected that the minimum figure for Draisaitl could be around $14 million, with possibilities for higher amounts. Their discussions reveal the complexity of balancing Draisaitl’s worth alongside McDavid’s contract, which would require the Oilers to manage their financial resources prudently.

Craig Button elaborated on the numbers, indicating that if the cap rises to $88 million next season, it could subsequently increase to $94 million the following year. The potential financial landscape is critical as the Oilers plan their roster around their star players, Draisaitl and McDavid. The challenge for management is to ensure competitive team building while navigating these lucrative contracts.

NHL Rumors: Don’t Anticipate an Immediate Contract Extension for Leon Draisaitl

With contract discussions looming, the timeline for Draisaitl’s extension remains uncertain. Rishaug highlighted that this could mirror other players’ situations, such as David Pastrnak, who delayed signing his extension until the final months before becoming a potential unrestricted free agent. The Oilers are undoubtedly a strong team capable of contending for the Stanley Cup once again next season, raising the stakes for Draisaitl’s decision-making process.

As the offseason progresses, it will be intriguing to witness how negotiations unfold. Draisaitl has become a focal point of conversation in the hockey community this summer, and his choices could significantly shape the future of the Edmonton Oilers. The anticipation surrounding his next steps only adds to the excitement of the upcoming NHL season.