Tip: Oilers Secure Leon Draisaitl with Eight-Year, $14 Million Per Season Contract Extension

The Edmonton Oilers have secured forward Leon Draisaitl with an eight-year contract extension worth $14 million annually, set to start in the 2025-26 season. This follows the end of his current eight-year, $68 million deal.

Last season, Draisaitl scored 41 goals and added 65 assists in his 10th year with the Oilers, playing a key role in their run to the Stanley Cup Final, though they ultimately fell to the Florida Panthers in Game 7. His crucial assist in Game 6 highlighted his impact on the team.

Draisaitl took his time deciding on the extension, fully focused on the team’s playoff run before addressing his future. Though he could have signed earlier, his decision was influenced by wanting to continue chasing a Stanley Cup in Edmonton. There’s speculation that this could also influence teammate Connor McDavid to re-sign.

From the Oilers’ perspective, getting Draisaitl signed was crucial to avoid losing him to free agency or facing difficult trade decisions. His new deal makes him the highest-paid player in the NHL, surpassing Auston Matthews' $13.25 million salary. While some concerns about the long-term value of the contract exist, Draisaitl’s performance and leadership make this a necessary move to keep Edmonton in championship contention.

The deal also signals optimism about McDavid staying with the team and allows Edmonton to maintain its competitive window, even as they face salary cap challenges and aging core players.