Vincent Desharnais puts contract extension with Oilers on pause

As a seventh round draft pick of the Oilers in 2016, fans have become very fond of the massive French defenceman, but he may not stick around past this year. According to Oilers insiders this morning, Desharnais has put contract extension talks on hold through the playoffs.

Both Desharnais and the Oilers seem willing to negotiate a return to the team next season, but it may become difficult for the Oilers to meet his asking price. There's been no hard numbers leaked, but insiders have reported that Desharnais will be seeking a contract similar to Justin Holl's deal for 3 years at $3.4M each year.

Both Holl and Desharnais made the NHL as regulars later in their careers after toiling in the minors, and seeking some term for financial stability. With the rising salary cap, near $3M could be the price for a quality top 6 defence. On the other hand, OilersNation writer Zach Laing argued it could be a much lower, much more accommodating 2-3 year contract near $1.5M.

Desharnais' style of play is that of a vintage shut-down defensive defenceman, which always fares well in the playoffs. It's been incredible for Oilers fans to watch Desharnais develop all the way from the ECHL to the NHL, and he's proven he makes a positive impact on the team on the ice and in the dressing room. Hopefully, management can find the space to keep Desharnais happy and with the Oilers.