Oilers GM Stan Bowman shares updates on Leon Draisaitl's contract negotiatons & Evander Kane's LTIR status

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Aug 21, 2024 06:03 GMT

In a recent virtual media session, Edmonton Oilers GM Stan Bowman talked about two main things: Leon Draisaitl’s contract talks and Evander Kane’s injury.

Bowman confirmed that talks with Leon Draisaitl and his agent have begun. He did not share details, saying it's best to keep it private. He wants to avoid public speculation and unrealistic expectations.

"I was expecting that question, and understandably so. There's a lot of interest in Leon, and so I'll say that we have begun our conversations with Leon and his agent. Beyond that, I don't want to comment on it..."

"You shouldn't read anything negative into that. I just don't want to try to put timelines on it or whatnot. We have begun the process and as it plays out and we have an update, we will certainly reach out and let everybody know," Bowman said.

On Evander Kane’s injury, Bowman explained that managing Kane’s LTIR status is complex. Kane’s recovery involves his medical team. Some injuries need immediate surgery, while others have different treatments.

“His moving forward plan is going to be between Evander and the doctors.” Bowman said, “You need to be able to activate him when he returns from that injury."

"So that's something that came into a lot of our discussions..., but we have to have a game plan for when he's healthy and ready to play, and that was much more problematic.”

Bowman also clarified how LTIR affects the salary cap. He explained that LTIR does not create extra cap space and said:

“You don’t accrue any cap space, So if you're using long-term injury for a few months and then you come out of it and you activate the player, you’re starting with no cap space and you’re trying to build it up.”

An injured player like Kane does not automatically free up cap space. LTIR doesn’t create cap space, so the team must plan carefully for Kane’s return. This can affect short-term and long-term roster decisions.

Leon Draisaitl's message to Cody Ceci after trade to Sharks

The Edmonton Oilers traded defenseman Cody Ceci to the San Jose Sharks. Leon Draisaitl, his close friend and teammate, posted a funny farewell on Instagram. Draisaitl shared two photos: one at a wedding and another of Ceci crashing into the boards. Draisaitl wrote that he would miss Ceci, calling him a great teammate.

While Ceci moves to the Sharks, Leon Draisaitl is expected to stay with the Oilers. The two friends will meet again on December 21, when the Oilers play the Sharks.