The possibility of Connor McDavid signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs, once considered a far-fetched fantasy, is gaining traction as a legitimate possibility in the hockey world. Several factors contribute to this shift in perception, including McDavid's contract status with the Edmonton Oilers, his expressed desire to win, and the Maple Leafs' evolving team dynamics and cap space situation.
McDavid is entering the final year of his eight-year, $100 million contract with the Oilers. While many expected a contract extension to be a formality, negotiations have yet to yield an agreement. McDavid's recent comments have further fueled speculation. He stated that "all options are on the table," including a short-term deal or even "no term" with the Oilers. This has been interpreted by some as McDavid keeping his options open, potentially considering a move to a new team. Some fans believe that McDavid's family will have a huge part in his decision.
McDavid has emphasized that winning is his top priority. In a September 4 interview, he stated, "It's not about trying to make the most amount of money… It's about winning. It's about winning over and over again and that's my priority". While the Oilers have been a competitive team, reaching the Stanley Cup Final twice in a row, they have fallen short of winning the ultimate prize. McDavid may be evaluating whether the Oilers can consistently contend for championships in the long term.
The Maple Leafs, meanwhile, are undergoing changes that could make them a more attractive destination for McDavid. The team has parted ways with key players like Mitch Marner, potentially opening up roster spots and cap space. The projected NHL salary cap is expected to rise significantly, potentially reaching $104 million or more, giving the Leafs greater financial flexibility. This increased cap space could allow them to pursue McDavid without crippling the rest of their roster. As of August 13, 2025, the Maple Leafs have just over $1.9M in available cap space with 23 rostered players.
The idea of McDavid playing for his hometown team has always been alluring. In 2015, before being drafted by the Oilers, McDavid said that playing for the Leafs would be "an absolute dream come true". While he has since dedicated himself to the Oilers, the pull of playing in Toronto could be a factor if he chooses to explore free agency.
Of course, challenges remain. The Maple Leafs would need to create sufficient cap space to accommodate McDavid's salary, which could be in the $16-17.5 million range or higher. They would also need to convince McDavid that they can build a Stanley Cup-winning team around him. Some believe that the Leafs don't have the luxury of waiting around and hoping to land the 28-year-old star.
Despite these hurdles, the notion of Connor McDavid in a Maple Leafs jersey is no longer a mere fantasy. McDavid's contract situation, his desire to win, the Maple Leafs' changing landscape, and the lure of playing at home all contribute to the increasing plausibility of this blockbuster scenario.
