How the current contracts of Oilers players shape up
The Oilers have signed Leon Draisaitl to a eight-year, $112 million extension, but have to work out their cap space if they are to build their defensive unit.
The Oilers finally settled their negotiations with Leon Draisaitl, as he signed terms on a contract extension for eight years and $112 million. It turns out the deal was agreed last week, but the decision was made not to present the news to the public right away, as a sign of respect after the Gaudreau family tragedy.
The Oilers now have one of their leaders secured for the long-term, as they aim to finally win a Stanley Cup for the first time since 1990. Combine him with Connor McDavid and the Oilers are in a strong position, with McDavid's own contract being worth $12.5 million per year for the next two seasons before he becomes a a free agent himself.
Another important player on the team is Zach Hyman, who still has four seasons left on his current contract, worth $5.5 million annually. Combined, these three talented players have the experience and ability to lead the team to consistent success.
This trio accounts for a total of $32 million in cap space for the Edmonton Oilers over the next two seasons, before McDavid signs his new deal. At that point there will be more uncertainty about what the future holds for the Oilers franchise, but for now the focus is on their attempts to win a Stanley Cup.
The importance of a well-structured team for the Oilers
Oilers' management aims to sustain a competitive team in the future. The critical question more immediately, is whether the squad is well-equipped to win games deep into the postseason this coming season?
As things stand, the team has a playoff-worthy offensive core. Their offensive capability will be a nightly spectacle, thanks to the firepower the team has amassed.
However, the defensive structure may need adjustments, but the team might satisfied with the current players on the unit for now. If the Oilers do stick with the blue line options, how they perform will impact whether or not management looks to do something before the trade deadline.
No matter at what point the Oilers decide they need to improve their defence, one important factor to consider is the salary cap. As per PuckPedia, at this time they only have cap space of $945,833 for the 2024-25 season.
The type of players the Oilers may acquire before the trade deadline
Focusing on the defensive unit, the Oilers have options for bringing in players with a mix of age and talent, ranging from rookies to veterans. The Oilers might sign a low-cost rental player in their mid-20s to add speed and complement them with a seasoned defensive veteran.
Among seasoned veterans, Brian Dumoulin and Jeff Petry come to mind. As the second and bottom pairings are still being determined, both would add confidence to the blue line and simplify the game.
Next. Draisaitl gave Oilers hometown discount, just not how you think. Draisaitl gave Oilers hometown discount, just not how you think. dark
For a younger star, Pierre-Olivier Joseph would be an ideal candidate to join the Oilers' defensive unit at a very affordable cost. However, it would probably be a case of waiting until the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline to add him.
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