Oilers on the brink of securing Leon Draisaitl with a new contract extension
In a significant move poised to reshape their future, the Edmonton Oilers are reportedly nearing a contract extension for key player Leon Draisaitl, as insider Bob Stauffer suggests.
The buzz surrounding this update is palpable, especially considering the strategic timing of the negotiations. With new management under Stan Bowman and the current dynamics within the team, the Oilers seem to be aligning their pieces meticulously on the chessboard.
Leon Draisaitl's agent previously asserted the necessity for a swift deal by August, a sentiment echoed by Oilers' president Jeff Jackson. Jackson's preference for the new general manager to spearhead this crucial negotiation has now materialized with Bowman's controversial appointment. This move is strategic, not just from a gameplay perspective but also as a potential shift in the narrative surrounding the team, especially given the recent backlash over Bowman's hiring due to his past involvement in the Blackhawks scandal.
This urgency is not unfounded. Yesterday, the Oilers faced a storm of criticism over their decision to bring Bowman on board. Now, with all the pieces in place, the Oilers are in a prime position to redirect the public conversation toward a more positive headline with Draisaitl's contract extension. Securing Draisaitl could serve as the perfect counterbalance to the current negative press.
As for the contract specifics, they remain shrouded in mystery. Reports vary, suggesting everything from a long-term commitment to a shorter, value-maximized contract similar to Auston Matthews'. The most credible scenario seems to be Draisaitl signing a lucrative short-term contract, reflecting his true market value�a significant leap from his previous $8.5M deal which he outplayed over the last eight seasons.
Whatever the outcome, the anticipation among Oilers fans is reaching a fever pitch. The team is not just looking to secure its star player, but to cement its roster for a robust challenge in the upcoming seasons. With Draisaitl likely locked in and an enhanced team setup from last year, the Oilers are not just aiming for a playoff run; they are eyeing the Stanley Cup Finals.
Every development and every decision at this point is crucial for the Oilers as they set their sights on higher accolades, proving once again why the off-season is as thrilling and dynamic as the games played on ice.
Source: Bob Stauffer
Draisaitl contract expected soon
| POLL | ||
Do you believe Draisaitl will sign a short-term or long-term contract with Edmonton? | ||
| Long term | 86 | 57.7 % |
| Short term | 53 | 35.6 % |
| He's leaving Edmonton | 6 | 4 % |
| See Results | 4 | 2.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
