On July 5, 2017, Connor McDavid signed an eight-year contract extension with the Oilers.
Peter Chiarelli, who was the general manager of the team at that time, offered him a contract valued at $12.5 million per season, making McDavid the highest-paid player in the National League.
However, what you may not know is that McDavid could have signed for a higher amount.
Pierre LeBrun disclosed this information during the first episode of his new podcast titled “Radar,” which he co-hosts with Anthony Desaulniers (BPM Sports).
According to the source, it was McDavid’s decision to leave some money on the table at the last moment to give the Oilers more flexibility with their payroll.
This situation is quite similar for Draisaitl, who recently signed a massive contract in Edmonton.
LeBrun mentioned that Draisaitl could have also earned more annually:
The amount could have been higher. Draisaitl confirmed: $14 million is accurate. – Pierre LeBrun
Leon Draisaitl left money on the table and could have signed for even more than $14 million per year with the Oilers!😲💰
To listen to the new podcast by @PierreVLeBrun with @Anthodezo: pic.twitter.com/tqJlIiRFje
— commissionathletique (@Commissionathl) September 25, 2024
There are two perspectives to consider here.
Indeed, $14 million a year is a significant sum for virtually anyone in the world.
However, on the other hand, Draisaitl likely could have secured a higher salary by exploring the free agent market due to his immense value. When players who contribute over 100 points become available, they command substantial contracts.
And with the salary cap expected to rise in the upcoming years (projected to be $93 million for the 2025-26 season), it’s common to see top players signing highly lucrative contracts.
This indicates that Leon Draisaitl followed the same path as McDavid by leaving some money on the table.
It remains to be seen if the captain will choose to do the same for his next contract (which ends in the summer of 2026)… and whether the Oilers can take advantage of this opportunity before it’s too late.
In Brief
– Frankness is key.
Most 50-win seasons in the cap era:
5 — Boston Bruins
4 — Carolina Hurricanes
4 — Colorado Avalanche
4 — Dallas Stars
4 — Detroit Red Wings
4 — New York Rangers
4 — San Jose Sharks
4 — Tampa Bay Lightning
4 — Washington Capitals
3 — Pittsburgh Penguins
3 — Vancouver Canucks
2 —… pic.twitter.com/jOmvAP22sI— Big Head Hockey (@BigHeadHcky) September 25, 2024
– Absolutely.
Miller: Toronto will secure their spot in the playoffs
— TSN 690 Montreal (@TSN690) September 25, 2024
– Paying, playing golf…
Completely ABSURD earnings for Scottie Scheffler this year! 🤯💲@5a7RDS pic.twitter.com/YtxbTrX8uE
— RDS (@RDSca) September 25, 2024
– Interesting.
Nancy and the Crew will visit the White House
— RDS (@RDSca) September 25, 2024
McDavid and Draisaitl: Contract Decisions Impacting the Oilers’ Future
Date: July 5, 2017 – A pivotal day for the Edmonton Oilers, marking the moment Connor McDavid signed an eight-year contract extension worth $12.5 million per season, becoming the highest-paid player in NHL history.
The Context of McDavid’s Contract
Under the guidance of then-general manager Peter Chiarelli, the Oilers aimed to secure their franchise player while simultaneously maintaining financial flexibility. What may come as a surprise is McDavid’s willingness to leave potential earnings on the table.
According to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, McDavid chose to reduce his salary demands to enhance the Oilers’ flexibility in managing their payroll. This selfless decision reflects both his commitment to the team’s success and a strategic approach to his career.
Draisaitl’s Parallel Decisions
Similar sentiments were echoed when Leon Draisaitl signed his substantial contract. LeBrun indicated that Draisaitl, like McDavid, might have taken a less lucrative deal to aid in the Oilers’ salary cap management. Draisaitl’s deal could have surpassed $14 million annually, underlining his immense value as a player.
Why Leave Money on the Table?
Both players made decisions that raised eyebrows in the hockey community:
- Increased team flexibility to improve overall squad depth.
- Desire to build a winning culture in Edmonton.
- Understanding the financial landscape of the league with increasing salary caps.
Implications of Future Contracts
As both McDavid and Draisaitl navigate through their contracts, questions arise about future decisions. For instance, McDavid’s current contract ends in the summer of 2026, opening up speculation on whether he will follow the same path of financial concession for the benefit of the Oilers.
The NHL Salary Cap Evolution
The NHL salary cap is projected to rise significantly, estimated to reach $93 million by the 2025-26 season. This anticipated increase will influence contract negotiations across the league, giving top-tier players even more leverage:
| Year | Predicted Cap | Notable Contracts |
|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | $83.5 million | McDavid, Draisaitl |
| 2024-25 | $88 million | Potential Free Agents |
| 2025-26 | $93 million | Rising Stars |
Market Competition for NHL Stars
In a competitive market, elite players who can rack up over 100 points annually significantly increase their market value. This aspect of professional sports economics emphasizes the delicate balance between personal financial gain and team success.
Draisaitl’s decision to sign at a lower figure mirrors McDavid’s earlier approach, creating a narrative of loyalty and foresight within the franchise.
Case Studies: Stars Leaving Money on the Table
Case Study 1: Connor McDavid
McDavid’s 2017 financial decision exemplifies a broader trend seen in various sports where athletes prioritize a cohesive, competitive team over personal gain.
Case Study 2: Leon Draisaitl
Draisaitl represents the next wave of selfless stars in the league, showcasing a willingness to sacrifice potential earnings for the greater good of the team. This mindset strengthens the Oilers’ chances in a league where every dollar can impact roster decisions.
The Future of the Oilers
Ultimately, the overarching theme of McDavid and Draisaitl’s contracts is the impact on the Edmonton Oilers’ future. To harness their talent effectively, the Oilers must navigate not only the tactical but also the financial landscapes of professional hockey.
As we look toward the upcoming seasons, following the decisions of both players will be critical in analyzing the Oilers’ trajectory and potential for success in the highly competitive NHL environment.
Key Takeaways
- Contracts are multifaceted decisions integrating personal ambition and team needs.
- The rise in the salary cap will significantly affect future contract negotiations.
- Athletes often demonstrate loyalty through financially strategic decisions.
