NHL Insider David Pagnotta shared insights into Leon Draisaitl's contract extension negotiations with the Edmonton Oilers during a phone interview on the Hello Hockey Show.
Leon Draisaitl stands out as one of the NHL's most prolific players today. Despite his formidable talent on the ice, he currently ranks third in career points over the past decade.
However, with Connor McDavid widely regarded as one of the best hockey players globally, the Oilers have not made re-signing Draisaitl a top priority this summer, leading to speculation that he may be off to a new NHL home following the upcoming season.
"With Leon Draisaitl's next contract, cost and term are just one part of the conversation. There's also the decision on staying the No.2 to McDavid's No.1 or trying to be a team's leading star elsewhere."
After speculation quieted down, David Pagnotta discussed the possible terms of Draisaitl's extension. During a phone interview on the Hello Hockey Show, he suggested that Edmonton might pursue a medium-term contract, similar to the one Auston Matthews signed with Toronto.
"They're going to continue their discussions with respect to an extension. I think there is one that can be ironed out, I just believe it's more likely. Unless something has changed since, I guess, the start of the playoffs, I think it's more likely you know to see an Auston Matthews-esque type extension: four, five-year deal or anywhere from three to five-year extension versus a full eight."
Despite potential discontent among many Edmonton fans, it seems probable that Leon Draisaitl will stay with the team for several more years. Yet, if his demands become excessive, it could spell trouble for the Oilers in the future.