While the current focus for the Edmonton Oilers isn’t on a contract extension for Leon Draisaitl, it won’t be long until the organization is in a position where a big decision will be looming. And, as the regular season winds down, the playoffs take place, and the Oilers try to make a deep run toward the Stanley Cup, every point Draisaitl gets will factor into his next deal. Darren Dreger, speaking on TSN OverDrive, believes the numbers could get so high, that Draisaitl might price himself right out of what the Oilers can afford.
During a conversation about the salary cap, Draisaitl’s production, and his pending free-agency status at the end of next season, Dreger casts doubt on the immediate likelihood of a contract extension between the forward and the Oilers. Despite being eligible to ink a new deal as early as July 1, 2024, the NHL insider predicts a prolonged negotiation process and suggests there’s no reason for Draisaitl to make a quick decision.
hinking he’ll wait to see how the market plays out and that Draisaitl will want to know what the cap will be in 2025-26, his delay in extending will raise concerns over the Oilers’ financial capacity to retain the dynamic star, his interest in moving on, and the potential interest from other NHL teams.
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