Ex-Oiler says Leon Draisaitl won't sign new deal with Edmonton

A former member of the Edmonton Oilers says the Edmonton Oilers will not be able to re-sign Leon Draisaitl to a new deal and the star has a new team in mind

The Edmonton Oilers are currently concentrating on their first round 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs series against the LA Kings, but that hasn't stopped the offseason rumour mill from churning. And a big one came out today courtesy of a former member of the team.

While appearing a BPM Sports podcast, Georges Laraque dropped what he called "a bomb" regarding Edmonton Oilers star Leon Draisaitl. Laraque says a source within the team told him Draisaitl wants to be a member of the Boston Bruins.

"Do you want me to throw a bomb at you? Someone who works around the team gave me a rumour about Leon Draisaitl. He told me that not only was Draisaitl not going to re-sign with the Oilers, but he would be going to Boston. I don't believe it, but he works around the team."

While this seems out of left field, it coincides with a report from Jim Matheson from earlier this year that stated the Bruins were willing to so what it takes to get Draisaitl.

"Jim Matheson believes that the Boston Bruins would 'move heaven and earth' to bring in Leon Draisaitl if he becomes available by any means."

As per Capfriendly, Draisaitl has one season left after this one on his contract, at which point he becomes an unrestricted free agent if a new deal hasn't been signed with the Edmonton Oilers. GM Ken Holland has some time, but it's possible Draisaitl will want to see what he can get on the open market. Draisaitl's current deal carried an average annual value of $8.5 million. Expect a hefty raise on his next one unless he's willing to take a discount for someone.

Previously on Hockey OTB

Mark Stone's wife under fire for a suspicious photo with fan

New Captain of the Capitals revealed by Alex Ovechkin

TJ Oshie reveals debilitating injury he's been suffering all season

POLL
30 AVRIL \| 427 ANSWERS Ex-Oiler says Leon Draisaitl won't sign new deal with Edmonton Do you think Leon Draisaitl will re-sign with the Edmonton Oilers?
Yes	234	54.8 %
No	142	33.3 %
Not sure	51	11.9 %
LIST OF POLLS