Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl has officially become the highest-paid player in the NHL with his new long-term contract.
The Edmonton Oilers have solidified their future by signing star forward Leon Draisaitl to a record breaking deal surpassing Auston Matthews.
A massive eight-year contract extension worth $14 million per season, starting in the 2025-26 NHL season.This deal, valued at $112 million over its duration, ensures that Draisaitl will remain a central figure for the Oilers through the prime years of his career.
Known for his powerful offensive abilities, Draisaitl has been a cornerstone of Edmonton's success alongside Connor McDavid, forming one of the most dynamic duos in the league. With this extension, the Oilers are making a clear statement about their commitment to keeping their core intact as they aim for long-term success.
He's a player who not only excels in scoring but also makes everyone around him better. Securing him for the long term was a top priority for us.
The contract, which averages $14 million annually, sets a high benchmark for future signings within the league. It reflects Draisaitl's importance to the Oilers and his position as one of the NHL's elite players. With this deal, Edmonton locks in a key player well before the expiration of his current contract, providing stability and a clear direction for the franchise moving forward.
This extension signifies Edmonton's commitment to building a championship-caliber team around its core stars. Draisaitl's extension, coupled with McDavid's presence, offers the Oilers a strong foundation to contend for the Stanley Cup in the coming years. The team's management is clearly focused on maintaining a competitive edge by securing their top talents early, ensuring that their roster remains among the league's best.
As the Oilers look to the future, the combination of Draisaitl's skill and McDavid's leadership will be crucial in their quest for success. This move will also likely influence how other teams approach their star players' contract negotiations, as Draisaitl's extension sets a new standard for elite forwards in the NHL.
Leon Draisaitl's eight-year extension with the Edmonton Oilers marks a significant moment in the franchise's history. It not only secures one of the league's top players for the long term but also reinforces the Oilers' ambition to remain competitive for years to come. As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Edmonton to see how this move impacts their pursuit of the Stanley Cup.