Oilers Working on Defenseman Extension Worth $40 Million…
The Edmonton Oilers have secured Leon Draisaitl with a significant contract extension, and now, Connor McDavid is expected to follow. However, defenseman Evan Bouchard is also on the Oilers’ radar, with discussions about his contract already underway.
Bouchard, set to become a restricted free agent after the 2024-25 season, is considered a crucial part of Edmonton’s blue line. According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Oilers are taking a proactive approach in extending Bouchard, aiming to finalize a deal soon.
“Bouchard will likely stay because the team has a chance to win,” Friedman said on Sportsnet’s *Sports Central*. He added that the Oilers are planning their salary cap around key players like Bouchard, Draisaitl, and McDavid, which they estimate could total $40 million for the trio.
Bouchard, 24, is entering the last year of his two-year contract with a $3.9 million cap hit. Given his role on the power play and potential to become a top-tier defenseman, a pay raise is expected. Friedman also pointed out the Oilers’ salary cap strategy, explaining that the team avoided matching offer sheets this offseason to maintain flexibility for future signings.
Oilers Linked to Free Agent Defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk…
Veteran defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk, 35, is eager to continue playing in the NHL and has shown interest in joining the Edmonton Oilers, according to his agent George Bazos via NHL insider Pierre LeBrun. Shattenkirk, who played last season with the Boston Bruins, recorded 6 goals and 24 points in 61 games and remains an unrestricted free agent. Bazos confirmed on September 6 that Shattenkirk is in talks with multiple teams, seeking the right fit.
During the same time, Friedman mentioned on the *32 Thoughts* podcast that more players are considering Edmonton as a potential destination following their Stanley Cup Final run.
While Shattenkirk hasn’t been directly linked to the Oilers by insiders, many, including Jim Parsons, believe that Edmonton could be a suitable landing spot for the veteran defenseman. \
Parsons noted that Shattenkirk’s experience, combined with his affordability, would be beneficial for the Oilers, given their limited cap space. If Shattenkirk were to join, he would likely sign a deal below $1 million.
