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The End Of An Era: What The Oilers' Playoff Exit Means for McDavid And Draisaitl

An End To The "Cup or Bust" Dreams In Edmonton

 


Rest easy, Oil Country. It’s the dawn of a new chapter.

For the last time, Edmonton wakes up to the reality of its beloved Oilers being eliminated from the NHL playoffs, despite the heroic efforts of their dynamic duo—Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. This latest heartbreak was sealed on Monday night when the Florida Panthers clinched a 2-1 victory in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, marking Edmonton’s first appearance since a similar seven-game loss to the Carolina Hurricanes in 2006.

This marks the sixth time the Oilers, led by their prolific pairing, have fallen short of clinching the Stanley Cup, following a series of earlier playoff disappointments: first-round exits to Chicago and Winnipeg, second-round defeats by Anaheim and Vegas, and a painful sweep by Colorado in the third round two years ago.

The Inevitable Conclusion

However, it’s safe to say that there won’t be a seventh attempt with McDavid and Draisaitl at the helm. Rather than finally addressing the team's chronic issues—lack of depth scoring, inconsistent defense, and unreliable goaltending—the "City of (Long-Ago) Champions" may soon find itself bidding farewell to one of its superheroes.

Leon Draisaitl, in particular, seems poised for an exit. The German forward, who just concluded the penultimate season of his eight-year deal signed at age 21, will be seeking a substantial increase from his current $8.5 million average salary, justified by his five 100-point seasons, three 50-goal campaigns, and accolades including a scoring title and MVP award.

Financial Realities and Looming Departures

Draisaitl’s market value has skyrocketed, especially considering that of the six NHL players who scored over 106 points in the 2023-24 season, none had a lower cap hit. Only McDavid, his teammate, has amassed more points since Draisaitl’s contract began in 2017.

In the playoffs, Draisaitl has been equally impressive, ranking second only to McDavid in points per game and third overall in total playoff points since 2016-17. Despite his elite performance, Draisaitl has remained one of the best bargains in the league, a fact that makes it increasingly untenable for the Oilers to retain him.

Edmonton faces significant financial constraints, with players like Darnell Nurse and Jack Campbell taking up substantial cap space. With ten players due for free agency this July alone, the team cannot afford a substantial raise for Draisaitl without sacrificing essential components of the roster. This doesn’t even account for the financial cushion required to keep McDavid beyond his contract ending in 2026.

The Writing on the Wall

The tension between Draisaitl and the Edmonton media is another factor likely pushing him towards the exit. His infamous spat with journalist Jim Matheson and his often visibly strained interactions suggest he might be eager for a change of scenery. Cities like New York, Boston, or Philadelphia, while challenging in their own right, might offer Draisaitl the fresh start he needs along with a lucrative contract and the opportunity to lead as a primary star.

A Future Without McDavid and Draisaitl

As Edmonton braces for a potential departure, the Oilers must prepare for a significant transformation. The departure of Draisaitl—and possibly McDavid—will signal the end of an era. While their individual achievements are bound for Hall of Fame recognition, the team’s lack of Stanley Cup success under their leadership leaves a bittersweet legacy.

The departure of Leon Draisaitl and possibly Connor McDavid represents more than just a roster change; it symbolizes the end of a chapter filled with unfulfilled potential and persistent challenges. As the Oilers face a future without their dynamic duo, they must reckon with the realities of rebuilding and redefining their path to success.

For Edmonton fans, the journey has been a mix of exhilarating highs and crushing lows, but the love for their team remains unwavering. As the city prepares for what comes next, the memories of McDavid and Draisaitl's incredible performances will endure, even as the team looks to the future.

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Vertical Bar Media 

Visit Vertical Bar Media for all sports entertainment news.
 

Photo Credit: Codie McLachlan/Getty Images

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