The Edmonton Oilersā latest Stanley Cup Final loss once again placed their superstar captain, Connor McDavid, under the leagueās brightest spotlight.
With just two years remaining on his current eight-year, $100 million deal, speculation grew about whether the gameās most dominant player might seek a new challenge elsewhere.
His contract carries a $12.5 million annual cap hit, and in 2025ā26, McDavid is set to earn $10 million in combined salary and bonuses. By 2026, he will be an unrestricted free agent.
League chatter had pointed toward uncertainty over the term and annual value of his next agreement, with some predicting that rival franchises could make a play for his services. However, a respected NHL insider believes the situation is far more straightforward than many suggest.
Is Connor McDavid set to commit long-term to Edmonton?
NHL insider Jason Gregor initially floated the idea of a four-year extension for McDavid, giving the Oilers flexibility while keeping their franchise cornerstone in town. Yet, after further evaluation, Gregor now sees a different scenario unfolding.
Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers attempts a shot under pressure from Carter Verhaeghe #23 and Niko Mikkola #77 of the Florida Panthers in Game Six of the 2025 Stanley Cup Finals at Amerant Bank Arena on June 17, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
āThe relationship between Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers is much stronger than some want you to believe,ā Gregor explained. āYouāve likely read or heard numerous claims as to why he might leave. He isnāt leaving. An extension was always happening, and the only uncertainty is what the AAV and term of his new deal will be.ā
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Rumors fade as focus shifts to championship aspirations
With this strong stance from Gregor, much of the offseasonās trade chatter has begun to dissipate. The Oilersā priority is clear: finalize a new contract before McDavid enters the final year of his deal and shift focus entirely to ending their championship drought.
SurveyWill Connor McDavid sign a long-term deal with the Oilers?
Will Connor McDavid sign a long-term deal with the Oilers?
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If McDavid commits to Edmonton beyond 2026, it would solidify the Oilers as perennial contenders and quiet one of the leagueās most persistent rumor mills. All that remains to be seen is whether the extension will mirror the massive eight-year commitment he made in 2017 or take a different, modernized form.
