The Edmonton Oilers and their devastated star, Leon Draisaitl, are grappling with the abrupt end to their season after a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to the Florida Panthers in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final.
Looking forward, the Oilers are eager to maintain their championship aspirations, but it comes with significant considerations. If Draisaitl plays out the final year of his contract without an extension, there's a risk he could walk into free agency next summer, just as Conn Smythe winner Connor McDavid might in two years.
While McDavid and Draisaitl aren't tied together contractually, their on-ice chemistry and individual accolades make them a lethal duo. They boast the top two points-per-game averages in the NHL over the past five years, across both regular seasons and playoffs. Together, they're united in pursuit of a Stanley Cup.
Approaching 30 soon after his next contract starts, Draisaitl is likely seeking a long-term deal that secures his prime NHL years. Edmonton's priority is to keep this dynamic pairing intact for the foreseeable future.
