BREAKING NEWS: Oilers’ GM Speaks on Issues in Draisaitl Contract Talks…
The Edmonton Oilers have initiated contract discussions with Leon Draisaitl. While nothing is finalized, there’s no negative news to report either.
Stan Bowman, the new GM of the Edmonton Oilers, confirmed to NHL.com’s Derek Van Diest that talks have begun with Draisaitl. This is encouraging since previous reports indicated that negotiations hadn’t started. However, there’s no immediate update.
Though a deal could be announced soon, there’s no urgency, and it might take weeks before anything is confirmed.
“I had a good conversation (with Liut), and we’re starting things off, and the timing on that will be what it will be,” Bowman said, adding, “I don’t have an update of where it’s going to be or the timing on that, but there is nothing negative to report, certainly.”
Draisaitl is expected to receive a significant salary increase, with speculation that he’s seeking an eight-year contract worth between $13-$13.5 million per year. The Oilers are keen to retain him, and Bowman has expressed his intention to make Draisaitl an Oiler for life.
However, they must also consider the team’s overall salary cap and the need to secure contracts for Connor McDavid, Evan Bouchard, and other key players.
“Leon is a super-talented player, a huge part of what we’re doing, and he has been and will be for some time, and that hasn’t changed at all,” Bowman noted. “I think it’s really hard to find stars in the NHL, so when you have them, the goal is to keep them.”
Draisaitl’s Value to Edmonton
Draisaitl has been a critical player for the Oilers since his last long-term contract. He has consistently scored over 100 points in multiple seasons and has elevated his performance in the playoffs, even when not fully healthy.
During the Oilers’ 2023-24 run to the Stanley Cup Final, he scored 10 goals and 31 points in 25 games, following a remarkable 13 goals in 12 postseason games the previous year.
With 850 points (17th among active players) in 719 regular-season games and 108 points in 74 playoff appearances, Draisaitl’s contribution to the team is unquestionable.
