How Can the Oilers Retain Leon Draisaitl and Bouchard?

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Ryan Hall
August 7, 2023 (10:12 PM)

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As the new season approaches, all eyes are on the Oilers organization to see how they will manage to keep their superstar, Leon Draisaitl. Draisaitl, one of the NHL's most beloved players and a personal favourite of mine is just as crucial to retain as Connor McDavid. His consistent offensive prowess and unwavering loyalty to the Oilers since being drafted in 2014 make him an indispensable asset to the team.

There is also the matter of Evan Bouchard. The Oilers are hoping they can have him sign a bridge deal of 2 years which can give GM Ken Holland more flexibility when it comes

Oilersnation.com recently posted a video on Instagram, presenting various ideas for retaining Draisaitl and Bouchard after the upcoming season. The suggestions included potential buyouts, trades, and other options to create the necessary cap space to keep the talented German Center and steady defenceman on the roster.

A crucial point highlighted in the video was the expected increase in the salary cap over the next few years. This has been eagerly anticipated by NHL general managers and fans alike, as the prolonged period of a flat cap has caused complications throughout the league, forcing teams to deal with financial constraints and resorting to trading draft picks to make deals happen.

The NHL's cap is rumoured to rise by $4 million or more next season, and it is expected to continue increasing over the coming years, ultimately returning to its pre-COVID pandemic levels. This positive development bodes well for the Oilers' efforts to retain Draisaitl and Bouchard and secure their core roster.