Breathe out a sign of relief, Edmonton Oilers fans. Franchise cornerstone Leon Draisaitl has signed an eight-year extension with the Edmonton Oilers carrying an annual average value of $14M.
A big piece of business
This is a massive win for the Oilers. Draisaitl’s impact is immeasurable and it honestly didn’t even matter what the AAV came in at. This contract makes Draisaitl the highest paid player in NHL history in terms of AAV, surpassing Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews who is currently on a deal with an AAV of $13.25M. Of course, if/when Connor McDavid signs his extension with the Oilers, that AAV record will be surpassed once again.
It’s been a rough start for new General Manager Stan Bowman losing two key RFAs in Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg a few weeks ago, but this is a huge success.
With McDavid’s wedding happening in July, it’s been a busy summer for the Oilers. It’s great to see both Draisaitl and the team get this contract extension finalized before training camp as the Oilers reload for another run at the Stanley Cup.
Run it back
With more reinforcements signed in the offseason, the Oilers are primed to run it back and try to replicate what the Florida Panthers did in 2023–24.
The Oilers’ chances of it are that much higher now that Draisaitl is locked in.
Let’s go!
Photo by Curtis Comeau/Icon Sportswire
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