New reports on Kaprizov's contract suggest direct impact from McDavid contract

Unfortunately for Kaprizov, McDavid may not be seeking the maximum possible salary in his next contract. Insiders have reported McDavid wants to win above all else, and knows taking a higher salary will impede the team.

The Oilers Captain himself has even indicated that he's in no rush for contract talks, and could enter the regular season without a contract. Even with that in mind, Kirill Kaprizov's camp is expected to hold out until McDavid's value under the rising cap sets the bar.

Regarded as the best player in the NHL, whatever McDavid gets will be the peak value for most NHL contracts in the current cap environment. Kaprizov is smart to hold out until McDavid signs, and then use his value as a comparable to get a raise from the Wild.

According to new reports from David Pagnotta, with the rising cap Kaprizov is looking for a contract of $17M or more.

If Connor McDavid's salary comes in much higher than $17M next season, it will tighten the Oilers roster in other places. McDavid will need to strike a tough balance between signing a deal that makes sense for the Oilers and satisfies the NHLPA.

Entering the regular season without a McDavid contract extension would undoubtedly be an outside distraction for the Oilers. Hopefully a deal is reached soon, and the Oilers can put full focus onto the coming year.