Oilers face critical deadline in Leon Draisaitl's contract negotiations
The Edmonton Oilers are approaching a crucial juncture this offseason with the potential re-signing of star center Leon Draisaitl looming large.
The clock is ticking, and according to the latest buzz, the Oilers might be racing against time to secure their franchise player before the season commences.
The 2 Mutts Hockey Podcast highlighted a significant challenge for the Oilers: Draisaitl's agent has reportedly set a firm deadline. Negotiations must be concluded by September 19, just days before the preseason kicks off. If no agreement is reached, Draisaitl plans to play out the season without a contract extension, postponing further talks until the following offseason.
This development follows reports from NHL insider Frank Seravalli, who recently noted on OilersNow that discussions between the Oilers and Draisaitl's representatives have not progressed as hoped. It appears there's a notable disparity between what Draisaitl is seeking and what the Oilers are currently offering.
Leon Draisaitl, aged 28, has firmly established himself as one of the NHL's premier talents. Over 719 career games, the German center has tallied an impressive 347 goals and 850 points, maintaining a consistent output of over 100 points per season for the last six years. Despite his stellar performance, Draisaitl's current annual salary of $8.5 million is considered a bargain compared to his market value. Speculation suggests he could command upwards of $14 million on the open market, though he might settle for slightly less to stay with the Oilers.
The situation presents a delicate balance for the Oilers. As a franchise player, Draisaitl's potential free agency looms as a major narrative for the upcoming season. Should he enter the season without an extension, it could cast a shadow over the team's campaign, distracting from their on-ice objectives. The Oilers are thus pressed to meet his demands and secure his talents long-term, ensuring stability and continuity for the team's core.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Edmonton's management to navigate these negotiations adeptly, avoiding the pitfalls of drawn-out contract sagas that could disrupt the team's focus. With Draisaitl's undeniable impact on the team's success, the Oilers are undoubtedly keen to resolve this contract dilemma swiftly and satisfactorily, preserving their competitive edge in the fiercely contested NHL landscape.
Source for Draisaitl Stats:
Leon Draisaitl - PuckPedia
| POLL | ||
Do you believe Leon Draisaitl should get up to $14 million from th0 | ||
| Yes, he's worth it all | 91 | 59.5 % |
| No, it's too much | 53 | 34.6 % |
| He will leave | 9 | 5.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
