Leon Draisaitl’s eight-year, $112 million contract extension has proven to be exceptionally valuable for the Edmonton Oilers, according to Dom Luszczyszyn of The Athletic. Signed recently, the deal pays Draisaitl $14 million per year and is expected to generate roughly $35 million in surplus value for the team amid the NHL’s rising salary cap environment.
Luszczyszyn explains that this assessment is based largely on Draisaitl’s outstanding performance during the last season, combined with the anticipated upward trajectory of the league’s salary cap. This combination means the Oilers have effectively secured one of the NHL’s top players for a bargain in future years.
“Draisaitl has the league’s richest contract, the last year has made all the difference with regard to its perception. What looked like a fair deal when it was signed now looks like a steal thanks to Draisaitl’s personal leap in performance timed with the rising cap environment.” —Dom Luszczyszyn, Analyst
Draisaitl’s Rise as an Elite Two-Way Player
Luszczyszyn highlights that Draisaitl’s value extends beyond his offensive talents. His improved defensive play has elevated him into the ranks of the league’s best all-around players. This comprehensive skill set amplifies his worth far beyond that of a typical star forward.
“The bigger news was the rising cap.” —Dom Luszczyszyn, Analyst
With the NHL salary cap projected to continue increasing over the next several seasons, Draisaitl’s $14 million annual salary is expected to become increasingly cost-effective for the Oilers. This financial advantage offers the team additional flexibility to build around their core player.
“Combine those two things, and the Oilers once again get Draisaitl on an eight-year deal for a lot less than he’s worth.” —Dom Luszczyszyn, Analyst
Last season, Draisaitl’s production confirmed his value. He scored 52 goals and notched 106 points across 71 regular-season games. He also led the playoffs with 33 points in 22 appearances, further demonstrating his crucial role for Edmonton.
Zach Laing on Why Draisaitl Should Have Won the Hart Trophy
Zach Laing, in his annual player review for Oilers Nation, emphasized that Draisaitl deserved the Hart Trophy for the 2024-25 NHL season. Recognizing Draisaitl’s first Rocket Richard Trophy win as the top goal scorer, Laing argued that Draisaitl’s overall impact went beyond just scoring.
“By all accounts, that should’ve been Leon Draisaitl’s Hart Trophy this season.” —Zach Laing, Hockey Analyst
Laing pointed out that Draisaitl’s seven-goal margin over the second-place William Nylander illustrated his dominance in the scoring race. However, it was also Draisaitl’s defensive contributions that set him apart.
“For Draisaitl, however, it’s not just his goal scoring that landed up as the Hart Trophy runner-up and should’ve been winner: it was his defensive game, too.” —Zach Laing, Hockey Analyst
During five-on-five play, Edmonton’s defensive numbers with Draisaitl on the ice reached career-best levels, including limiting shot attempts to 50.4 per hour, scoring chances to 24.8, and high-danger chances to 9.7. The team also recorded their second-lowest goals against and expected goals against per hour with him playing, underscoring his two-way effectiveness.
Implications of Draisaitl’s Contract and Performance for the Oilers
Leon Draisaitl’s contract extension not only locks in one of hockey’s brightest stars but also offers the Edmonton Oilers substantial salary cap relief as the league grows financially. His ability to dominate at both ends of the ice significantly enhances his value, making the agreement an astute investment. As the NHL’s salary cap rises, the Oilers are positioned to benefit from this contract while continuing to build a competitive roster around Draisaitl’s elite talent.