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Factors Affecting Ryan McLeod’s Contract Negotiations with The Edmonton Oilers

By Devon Hladunewich

Sep 28, 2022; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers center Ryan McLeod (71) skates with the puck against the Calgary Flames during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 28, 2022; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers center Ryan McLeod (71) skates with the puck against the Calgary Flames during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports /
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The pending arbitration case for Ryan McLeod has been a hot topic among Edmonton Oilers fans and media recently. Many are wondering whether or not the Edmonton Oilers will sign the young forward to a new contract before the hearing. However, it seems that there are several factors at play that may prevent McLeod from getting a new deal before arbitration.

First and foremost, McLeod’s performance on the ice has been somewhat inconsistent over the past year. While he has shown flashes of brilliance at times, he has also struggled with consistency and has not yet fully established himself as a reliable NHL player. This may make the Edmonton Oilers hesitant to offer him a high-value contract before seeing how he performs in the upcoming season.

In addition, there are financial considerations to take into account. McLeod is currently on his second contract, and while he has certainly shown promise, he has not yet proven himself to be a top-tier player in the league. As such, the Oilers may be hesitant to offer him a large salary before he has truly earned it.

The Edmonton Oilers only have so much cap space to give out this off-season. That being said I think however this McLeod deal works out affects how much Evan Bouchard will get, as these two are the only two NHL players left to sign.

Of course, it’s also worth mentioning that the arbitration process itself can be somewhat contentious. While it’s designed to be a fair and impartial way to resolve contract disputes, it can often result in hard feelings on both sides. As such, the Oilers may be hesitant to enter into arbitration with McLeod if they feel it could damage their relationship with the young forward.

These combined factors make it seem unlikely that Ryan McLeod will sign a new contract with the Oilers before arbitration. While he certainly has potential and could develop into a key player for the team, there are too many uncertainties at play to make a long-term commitment at this point in time. However, fans can still look forward to seeing McLeod on the ice this season and watching as he continues to develop and grow as a player.

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