Connor McDavid is ready to begin contract talks with the Edmonton Oilers. Additionally, according to a report from Frank Seravalli, there is already a possible number for his average annual salary. It would make him, as expected, the highest-paid player in NHL history.
“I don’t think $20 million is unreasonable given what he provides and how significant of an impact he has as the best player in the world. If I were looking at the Connor McDavid situation, as best I can handicap it at this point in time, my guess is somewhere between $16 and $17.5 million in AAV. Those are just ballparks. That’s the best that I can glean at this moment in time.”
Over the past few weeks, the lack of talks between both sides sparked numerous rumors suggesting that McDavid could become a free agent, giving teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs a chance to make a move. However, all signs now point to the star staying in Edmonton, looking for redemption and another shot at the Stanley Cup after yet another loss to the Florida Panthers.
Is Connor McDavid leaving Oilers?
No. Connor McDavid is not leaving the Oilers and is expected to sign a contract extension. However, in a very important detail, Seravalli emphasized that if the player doesn’t see the results he’s hoping for in Edmonton, he could leave in the near future.
“He has so much leverage and control that, if he decides after four years or three years or whatever that the Edmonton Oilers aren’t getting it done and he’s not gonna have a chance to win there, well, the best player in the world just raises his hand and says: ‘I want out.’ They’re gonna have no choice but to make it happen. So, I don’t think signing a shorter-term deal lights a fire under Edmonton any quicker than anything else.”
This means that if next season or in the next two years the Oilers take a step back and are no longer Stanley Cup contenders, McDavid holds the power to request a trade or walk away, and Edmonton wouldn’t stand in his way if that happens.
Is Connor McDavid eligible to sign contract extension with Oilers?
Connor McDavid has been eligible to sign a contract extension with the Oilers since July 1. However, according to Seravalli, some personal matters have delayed the contract talks, but now, they’re finally about to begin.
What needs to be kept on the radar is that, for example, when McDavid turns 30 and starts thinking about the final stretch of his career, he could decide to say goodbye to Edmonton. The Oilers would then have to facilitate his departure, and that might be the big opportunity for the Toronto Maple Leafs to finally bring him home.