Leon Draisaitl’s agent sets a clear deadline for his contract extension with the Oilers (IMAGN)
Leon Draisaitl’s future with the Edmonton Oilers is now a major topic. The Oilers aim to retain their star as his contract expires in a year. As the last year of his contract begins, he can now negotiate a new deal.
Jiri Poner from Spectrum Hockey and Mike Liut from Octagon Hockey are handling Draisaitl’s contract talks. Poner clarified Draisaitl’s contract situation with the Oilers in an interview with Eishockey News.
“There’s no rush yet, but either it happens quickly, i.e. by the end of August, or it doesn’t work out at all,” Poner said in German. “It will also become clear whether Edmonton wants him or not. Leon holds all the trump cards.”
Rumors of an early transfer have been circulating. Poner dismisses these, saying they will persist until Draisaitl signs.
“There are two important points,” Poner said. “Firstly: What will a club be willing to give up for a short-term deal? Leon would then be a free agent and the club would lose far too much. And secondly: What would Connor McDavid do a year later when his contract expires and Edmonton has already given up his friend?”
The Oilers must act quickly, ideally by the end of August. If not, it might not happen at all. Draisaitl’s agents believe he holds all the power in these talks.
Draisaitl’s current eight-year, $68 million contract was signed on August 16, 2017. Peter Chiarelli, the Oilers’ general manager, faced criticism for the $8.5 million per year deal. Poner believes Draisaitl has played for three years below his value.
Leon Draisaitl’s next contract is important for the Oilers since he is one of the key players on the team.
What’s complicating Leon Draisaitl’s contract extension with the Oilers?
The Edmonton Oilers made a comeback in the Stanley Cup Finals but lost in Game 7. They added Viktor Arvidsson and Jeff Skinner in this free agency. The defense and goalie lineup is staying the same.
Draisaitl is in the last year of his eight-year contract, where he’s outperformed his $8.5 million annual salary. Since 2016-17, he’s amassed 790 points, second only to Connor McDavid. Draisaitl has achieved five 100+ point seasons and six straight 30+ goal seasons.
Leon Draisaitl’s worth has increased, and he won’t accept a lower salary. His value surpasses his current $8.5 million, especially with players like Pettersson and Nylander earning over $11 million. The Oilers face salary cap issues, affecting their plans to extend Draisaitl and re-sign RFA Philip Broberg.
