Leon Draisaitl officially becomes the highest paid player in NHL history with mind-boggling extension

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Aaron Itovitch
September 3, 2024  (10:29)

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Photo credit: Markerzone

The Edmonton Oilers have finished some tidy business today by signing superstar Leon Draisaitl to an eight-year contract.

Per top hockey insider Elliotte Friedman, the Edmonton Oilers have extended Leon Draisaitl to an eight-year deal in the range of $14 million annually - the highest AAV in NHL history.

This is a massive deal, which the team could do unburdened by the salaries of Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway who are now members of the St. Louis Blues after successful offer sheets.

This is the first major extension for the Edmonton Oilers, who will need to lock down franchise defenseman Evan Bouchard this season as well, and the NHL's best player in Connor McDavid in the 2025-26 season.

At $14 million annually, this will make Leon Draisaitl the highest paid player in NHL history, usurping Auston Matthews' four-year deal with an $13.25 million annual average value, and surpassing Nathan Mackinnon's eight-year $100.8 million deal ($12.6 million annually).

He, however, will likely not hold this title for long as teammate Connor McDavid will deservedly earn more than Draisaitl on his next deal next year.

The Edmonton Oilers are going all in on their stars - whether or not it will result in a Stanley Cup is yet to be known.

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Previously

St. Louis Blues confirm crushing news for top defenseman: Torey Krug is done for the season

Matthew Gaudreau's wife and partner of 14 years sends heartbreaking message on social media

Montreal Canadiens podcast under fire for disgusting comments on Johnny Gaudreau tragedy

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SEPTEMBRE 3   |   206 ANSWERS Leon Draisaitl officially becomes the highest paid player in NHL history with mind-boggling extension Do you think the Edmonton Oilers will be able to extend both Evan Bouchard and Connor McDavid?
Yes	109	52.9 %
No	97	47.1 %
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