Edmonton Oilers & Leon Draisaitl NOT close to a new extension

There has been a lot of buzz around the Edmonton Oilers and their superstar forward, Leon Draisaitl, regarding a potential contract extension. Earlier this week, reports suggested that the Oilers and Draisaitl's camp were in advanced talks to finalize a deal that would keep the German forward in Edmonton until at least 2032. However, recent updates indicate that these reports may have been premature.

Leon Draisaitl, drafted third overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, has been an outstanding performer for the Oilers. Since making his debut in the 2015-2016 season, Draisaitl has established himself as one of the top talents in the NHL. Over his 719 games with Edmonton, he has amassed 347 goals and 503 assists, totaling 850 points. His performance has solidified his status as one of the best players in the league and arguably the greatest hockey talent to emerge from Germany.

Insider Reports and Reality Check

Speculation had been rife that Draisaitl might seek opportunities with other NHL teams, but many insiders dismissed this as unlikely. Draisaitl, despite playing alongside another superstar, Connor McDavid, has expressed his commitment to the Oilers' vision and his role within the team. His maturity and team-oriented mindset have been highlighted as key factors in his continued success in Edmonton.

Yet, TSN's Ryan Rishaug recently clarified that reports of an imminent deal were incorrect, throwing cold water on the earlier excitement surrounding the extension talks.

The Oilers have been building a competitive team around their dynamic duo of Draisaitl and McDavid, aiming for sustained success in the NHL. While a contract extension for Draisaitl is undoubtedly a priority for Edmonton, the timing and terms remain uncertain.

Draisaitl's role as a cornerstone of the franchise cannot be overstated, and any decision regarding his future with the team will be made with careful consideration. Both the Oilers and Draisaitl appear committed to finding common ground, but as of now, no agreement has been reached.

The rumors surrounding Leon Draisaitl's potential contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers have sparked considerable interest in the hockey community. While initial reports suggested a deal was close, recent updates have indicated otherwise. As negotiations continue, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds. For now, Draisaitl remains a pivotal figure in the Oilers' quest for NHL glory, and his future with the team remains a hot topic of discussion.