NHL insider says Leon Draisaitl will not sign long-term with Oilers

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Liam McCormick
July 14, 2024 (11:40)

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The Edmonton Oilers may be hoping to lock up Leon Draisaitl long term, but according to NHL insider David Pagnotta, Draisaitl may not be interested in an 8 year commitment.

On today's episode of the Hello Hockey Podcast, David Pagnotta explained that Draisaitl may be looking for a 4 or 5 year contract.

»Unless something's changed since the start of the playoffs, it's more likely to see a Auston Matthews-esque type of extension . . . anywhere from a three to five year extension versus a full eight.»
- David Pagnotta

Leon Draisaitl will be turning 30 years old when his next contract kicks in, and in reality, a shorter term deal would be more in his interest - just like the Auston Matthews contract. Draisaitl could play for a high salary for short term, and still have time later in his career to sign another long-term deal.

The Oilers superstar has scored well over a 100 point pace for the last six seasons, and will become the highest paid player in the league before McDavid signs his next contract. Draisaitl is certainly worth more than Matthews' short term contract of 4 years at $13.25M, many insiders believe Draisaitl could get up to $14M at least.

Some insiders have reported that Draisaitl may sign an 8 year deal, and of course fans want to see a superstar player commit long-term, so this news may come as a minor shock to Oilers fans.

Draisaitl clearly has no intention of leaving the Oilers right now because it provides him the best opportunity to succeed individually and compete for the Stanley Cup. But after playing on a discount contract for the last eight years, he needs to do what's best for himself. A short term contract gives him more money and control, and still keeps him as an Edmonton Oiler. Even if Draisaitl doesn't sign an 8 year contract, Oilers fans will still be rejoicing that he'll be back.

Source: David Pagnotta

Pagnotta speaks on Draisaitl contract talks