The Edmonton Oilers are facing a pivotal moment regarding the future of their captain, Connor McDavid, who is entering the 2025–26 NHL season in the final year of his eight-year, $100 million contract, which carries an average annual value (AAV) of $12.5 million and was signed in July 2017.
Edmonton is heading into the new season after losing two Stanley Cup Finals without capturing the title. In that context, both the team’s inner circle and fans are anxiously awaiting clarity about the future of the franchise’s top player and captain.
General manager Stan Bowman has already made it clear that retaining McDavid long-term is the Oilers’ top priority. The situation is far from simple, especially considering the challenges that come with the final year of a lengthy contract. A recent report suggests that Edmonton’s superstar could receive a massive offer to settle the matter.
A likely record-breaking offer for McDavid
According to NHL insider Bob Stauffer, the Oilers could finalize McDavid’s new extension “before August 28.” This new deal “would be historic” and would make the 28-year-old forward “the highest-paid player in the league, even surpassing the current annual record,” he reported.
McDavid’s stance
McDavid hasn’t hesitated to say, just days ago, that he feels no urgency to sign a new deal with the Oilers. Following a physically demanding season, his focus in recent weeks has been on fully recovering and regaining his best form.
Clues about the extension
There’s a name that offers an important clue about McDavid’s potential extension with Edmonton: Leon Draisaitl, who signed an eight-year, $112 million extension (AAV of $14 million) in September 2024. The fact that the franchise was able to commit to a contract of that size suggests it could also handle a significant deal for McDavid.