As the NHL off-season continues, speculation surrounding Connor McDavid's future with the Edmonton Oilers has been a persistent topic. With McDavid eligible to sign a contract extension since July 1, 2025, anxieties have arisen among fans regarding the possibility of him leaving the team.
General Manager Stan Bowman has acknowledged the importance of respecting McDavid's timeline and has had "really good conversations" with McDavid's agent, Judd Moldaver, since the season concluded. Bowman stated that he's given McDavid his space and is encouraged by their discussions.
Despite assurances from credible NHL insiders that McDavid will sign a new deal with Edmonton, rumors persist about him potentially moving to another franchise. Some fans have speculated about McDavid's potential departure due to the Oilers losing in the Stanley Cup Final twice in a row to the Florida Panthers in 2024 and 2025. However, NHL reporter Elliotte Friedman reported on July 13th that McDavid is likely to stay with the Oilers and sign a new contract.
Recent rumors also emerged regarding the reactions of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl to the Oilers' summer offer sheets for Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg. While it was initially reported that the two stars were angry about the situation, McDavid and Draisaitl clarified that they were simply shocked by the offer sheets.
The primary concern for the Oilers lies in the financial implications of McDavid's new contract. A significant deal could limit the team's ability to invest in other players, potentially impacting their future competitiveness. Reports suggest that the Oilers might consider trading players like Evander Kane or Victor Arvdson to create cap space for McDavid's new contract.
It's believed that McDavid's new deal could range from $15.5 million to $19 million per year, potentially making it the largest contract in NHL history. The Oilers are committed to keeping McDavid in Edmonton, recognizing him as the best player in the league and their top priority.
McDavid himself has expressed the need for time to consider his future, stating that he would consult with his family and agent before making a decision. Despite the ongoing discussions, there is no sense of panic within the Oilers organization, and they remain confident in their ability to reach an agreement with McDavid.
