Oilers Rumors: Leon Draisaitl Could Sign Short-Term Deal

Speculation is mounting that Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl might sign a short-term contract extension with the team, as noted by Mark Spector of Sportsnet. 

Recent reports suggest that Draisaitl's camp is in talks with the Oilers about a potential four-year deal. 

This move would align with a growing trend among NHL stars, such as Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who signed similar short-term extensions to maximize future earnings potential. A four-year contract would allow Draisaitl to capitalize on a potentially higher salary cap in the future, positioning him for another lucrative deal at age 32.

The Oilers have made it to Game 6 with Leon Draisaitl putting up no goals and two assists in five games. He's got to bust out at some point, right? If I'm the Panthers, that thought terrifies me.

— Arpon Basu (@ArponBasu) June 19, 2024

This potential contract would not only secure Draisaitl’s future in Edmonton but also serve as a positive indicator for Connor McDavid’s potential re-signing. 

The close relationship between Draisaitl and McDavid, both professionally and personally, suggests that Draisaitl’s commitment could encourage McDavid to follow suit. 

Keeping these two stars together is crucial for the Oilers, as no other contending team could afford their combined cap hit. The prospect of both stars committing to Edmonton reinforces the belief that the Oilers provide the best environment for them to succeed together.

Highest points per game when facing elimination, NHL history

Connor McDavid 1.92
Ken Linseman 1.61
Gilbert Perreault 1.50
Leon Draisaitl 1.50#LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/2KE20EEAdl

— Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) June 19, 2024

For the Oilers, securing Draisaitl for a few more years would be a significant boost to their long-term prospects, solidifying their core and maintaining their competitive edge in the league. 

Over the past six years, Draisaitl has recorded a whopping 272 goals and 371 assists for 643 total points across 450 games played.

With the Oilers having recently reached the Stanley Cup Final, Draisaitl’s decision to stay could be seen as a commitment to pursuing a championship in Edmonton, making him one of the highest-paid players in the NHL, at least until McDavid inks his own new contract.

Photo Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports