If the Edmonton Oilers want to keep the core that allowed them to reach the Stanley Cup final intact, they will have to grant $40 million annually to three players.
In any case, that’s what Frank Seravalli, of Daily Faceoff, said.
They are forwards Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl and defenseman Evan Bouchard. The first earns an annual salary of $12.5 million until 2026, while the other two have a contract worth $8.5 million and $3.9 million respectively until the end of the next season.
Draisaitl would seek a long-term agreement with the Alberta team.
On the show Stauffer’s Oilers NowFrank Seravalli made a prediction.
“The Oilers must take advantage at the moment because they have McDavid, Draisaitl and Bouchard who only total $25 million,” he recalled. “After this, it’s going to be different. For me, it’s not if it’s going to happen, but rather when it’s going to happen.”
“I believe the Oilers have already started discussions with the Draisaitl camp,” he added. “What I mean is, in two years, when the Oilers take the ice, these same three guys will be making $40 million.”
Frank Seravalli estimated that McDavid should then earn $16 million, while Draisaitl will pocket $14 million and Bouchard $10 million.
The 24-year-old Ontario defender would therefore become the Oilers’ highest paid fullback. He would overtake Darnell Nurse who earns $9.25 million annually until 2030.
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