NHL: Stanley Cup Final-Edmonton Oilers at Florida Panthers - Source: Imagn — Insider names Leon Draisaitl's price as contract extension talks heat up (Credits: IMAGN)

NHL Rumors: Insider names Leon Draisaitl's price as contract extension talks heat up

Modified Aug 13, 2024 04:30 GMT

The Edmonton Oilers came within one goal of a historic NHL title and Leon Draisaitl was a big reason for that. The hockey superstar was instrumental during the 2023-24 season, but he only has one season remaining on his current deal. If the Oilers want this core to stay together, they may have to pay up.

The "2 Mutts Hockey Podcast," founded by Joshua Marshall and co-hosted by Trevor Ruptash & Brody McIntyre, reported that contract extension talks are going very well between Draisaitl and the Oilers. According to the report, Draisaitl is seeking a contract with $14.5M AAV but is willing to take a pay cut to stay in Edmonton. The proposed contract will be an eight-year deal, translating to a total possible value of $108 million.

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They also reported that Evander Kane will be ready for training camp and will participate in the Captain Skates next week. He is not expected to land on long-term IR.

While the Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings have expressed some interest in Kane, he wants to remain an Oiler and isn't waiving his clause to leave. Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg are expected to sign two-year deals next week as well.

The Oilers have a top core that nearly pulled off an unbelievable comeback in the Stanley Cup Final. Much of it seems poised to return for next year and beyond, with Draisaitl potentially staying for the better part of a decade.

NHL insider unsure of Leon Draisaitl's intentions

While the latest reporting suggests that Leon Draisaitl wants to stay in Edmonton and is willing to take a pay cut to do so, one NHL insider recently questioned whether the defenseman wanted to be with the team.

Leon Draisaitl is nearing an extension (IMAGN)

Jimmy Howard, on the "Andy and Strickland" podcast, expressed concern. He said:

"There have been zero numbers passed back and forth between the Edmonton Oilers who just signed or hired a new general manager, not that they could have negotiated beforehand. And Leon Draisaitl, I don't know if Draisaitl wants to stay in Edmonton. You know what I'm saying, like, this guy wants to win a Stanley Cup."

However, the most recent news seems to throw this take out the window. The talks have begun since then and are going well, with Draisaitl being willing to do what it takes to remain an Oiler for the foreseeable future.