When it comes to the Edmonton Oilers, all eyes are on Connor McDavid. The superstar captain's future is a hot topic, with questions swirling about a potential trade or free agency departure in the next two years. But as the hockey world focuses on McDavid, one veteran insider is throwing a curveball: don't sleep on Leon Draisaitl.

Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic recently stirred the pot, suggesting that while McDavid's two-year deal makes his situation urgent, Draisaitl's long-term contract doesn't guarantee loyalty. "It’s interesting that our only focus seems to be on what 97 will decide to do," LeBrun noted on X. "But nothing is stopping Leon Draisaitl from asking out one day if that’s what he wanted. Just because he signed an 8-year deal doesn’t mean he will necessarily play it out all in Edmonton."

That's a sobering thought for Oilers fans. The German star inked a massive extension, but in today's NHL, a contract isn't always a lifetime commitment. Trade requests can come out of nowhere, and when they do, teams usually find a way to make it happen. If Draisaitl ever hits the market, you can bet every contender will be lining up with offers.

So what would drive Draisaitl to push for a move? Simple: the same thing that could drive McDavid away. If the Oilers fail to capture a Stanley Cup in the next couple of seasons, and then McDavid walks, Draisaitl would be left holding the bag in a city that's suddenly rebuilding. Would he really want to stick around for that? It's hard to imagine the five-time All-Star embracing a rebuild when he's in his prime.

For now, the focus remains on McDavid's looming decision. But as LeBrun points out, the Draisaitl situation is a ticking clock of its own. Edmonton's window is open, but it won't stay that way forever. If the Oilers can't get it done soon, they might find themselves losing not one, but two generational talents. And that's a nightmare scenario no fan base wants to face.