However, Draisaitl stated that he is attempting to succeed with Connor McDavid and the Oilers. From there, he mentioned that a lot will be considered when discussing the contract. “At the end of the day, he’s [McDavid] going to do what’s best for him, and I’m going to have to do the same thing for me,” he will then consider everything.
In an attempt to understand his thought process, followers and members of the media are examining and interpreting what he said and did not say. It’s most likely a pointless exercise. Furthermore, I have a different query because, assuming there was some sort of hidden meaning, we’ll never know what he was actually trying to say.
For Draisaitl, what is best?
Which Field Is Draisaitl Most Fit for Long-Term Play?
It’s obvious that a player like Leon Draisaitl cannot read my mind. However, it doesn’t take much imagination to see that the Oilers continue to be among his best long-term options if we consider a few important variables.
First off, Edmonton is the only place he can play with Connor McDavid if that’s something he values. It is possible to argue that Draisaitl could depart and McDavid would follow, but the chances of that happening are extremely slim. Finding a team with cap space, a better chance of winning, and one that is in a city they both want to play (and possibly live in) would be necessary to resolve that.
Second, he’s likely to get his money with the Oilers if that’s what he wants. Over the next few months, obviously, things could change, but if the team keeps winning—of which he is a major part—and the salary cap keeps rising, both parties ought to be able to come to an agreement. Once more, the Oilers may need to give up a few contract perks in order to retain both Draisaitl and McDavid, but that will always be the case no matter where these two end up. You can’t expect there won’t be any casualties after spending between $26 and $30 million on two players.
Third, this is the place Draisaitl knows. Here he has dedicated his career. He is at ease and the franchise has been kind to him.
The Grass Isn’t Always Greener: Edmonton May Be “Best For Me”
Draisaitl will have the option to select his next destination if he decides to investigate free agency, which he is entitled to do in the 2025 offseason. Players and teams have come to realize that looking for what you’re looking for elsewhere doesn’t always work out. It’s not like he will have thirty-one options to select from. Approximately 5-8 teams will be able to accommodate his contract. We can infer that he won’t be keeping an eye on half of those teams from there.
When it comes time for Draisaitl to make a decision, there seem to be only two reasons why he might consider leaving. He either doesn’t enjoy living in Edmonton. Alternatively, if he is unwilling to entertain a team-friendly offer, he knows his time is running out. The team wants to spend about $13 million in other ways.
