NHL insider Frank Seravalli from the Daily Faceoff has predicted that the Edmonton Oilers will lock in Leon Draisaitl, Connor McDavid, and Evan Bouchard, with a combined annual cost of $40 million. According to Oilers insider Bob Stauffer, Draisaitl’s camp is aiming for a long-term contract rather than a shorter deal like Auston Matthews signed with Toronto.
On Stauffer’s “Oilers Now” show, Seravalli said: “The Oilers need to capitalize now since McDavid, Draisaitl, and Bouchard are only costing $25 million. In the future, when everyone is re-signed, it’s a matter of when, not if…”
Stauffer interjected, surprised: “You’re saying the Oilers will sign all three?”
Seravalli confirmed: “I believe discussions with Draisaitl’s camp have already started.”
Stauffer added: “I think the Draisaitl camp will want the maximum term, not a four-year deal like Matthews. They want a long-term contract.”
Seravalli projected that in two years, the combined cost of the three players will be $40 million, distributed as $16 million for McDavid, $14 million for Draisaitl, and $10 million for Bouchard. He mentioned that the salary cap is expected to rise to $100 million by then.
When asked if McDavid and Draisaitl would stay, Seravalli said: “There’s no other place on earth where they can play together. McDavid isn’t leaving, and they are best friends. Draisaitl has praised McDavid’s unique abilities multiple times.”
Stauffer also brought up Draisaitl’s comments about Oilers owner Daryl Katz. Seravalli shared a story about Katz’s impact on the team and the city, highlighting his investments and support that transformed Edmonton.
Seravalli compared the Oilers to the Green Bay Packers in terms of revenue and market size, saying they are a “juggernaut” in league business. He noted that the team’s growth and success are largely due to Katz’s commitment during tough times.
He concluded by mentioning Draisaitl’s high praise for Katz, calling him “the best owner in pro sports,” and noted the strong relationship between the players and ownership, exemplified by moments like Draisaitl and Katz celebrating a big win together.