Connor McDavid’s contract situation is already drawing major attention, even though the superstar forward isn’t eligible to sign an extension with the Edmonton Oilers until July 1. While the franchise and fanbase remain hopeful for a long-term commitment, a respected NHL insider believes McDavid could opt for a different approach this time around.
Mark Spector, speaking on Sportsnet 590 The FAN, said he doesn’t expect McDavid to replicate the eight-year deal he signed back in 2017. That contract, worth $100 million, tied him to Edmonton through the 2025-26 season. But with McDavid just one year away from unrestricted free agency, Spector suggests a shorter-term extension is the likelier scenario.
“I think he’ll sign like a four-year deal, and that will allow him to get back in the market four years from now and do a new contract, whether it’s in Edmonton, wherever it is,” Spector said. “I do not see an eight-year deal in Edmonton.”
McDavid keeping options open
McDavid, now 27, is coming off a season in which he tallied 100 points in 67 regular-season games, plus an additional 33 points in the playoffs, helping Edmonton reach the Stanley Cup Final for the second time in his career. The Oilers ultimately fell short, but McDavid’s performance reaffirmed his place atop the league.
Leon Draisaitl #29, Connor McDavid #97, and Corey Perry #90 of the Edmonton Oilers react from the bench during the third period against the Florida Panthers in Game Six of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)
Speaking at the team’s end-of-season media availability, McDavid reiterated that there’s no pressure to sign immediately. “If I feel that there’s a good window to win here over and over again, then signing is no problem,” he said. “I’m not in a rush to make any decision, so I don’t think there needs to be any timeline.”
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Spector emphasized that McDavid will want to see how newly appointed general manager Stan Bowman reshapes the Oilers’ roster this offseason before committing to any long-term path.
A new timeline for a new era
While speculation is inevitable, Spector still expects Edmonton to retain its captain — at least for now. “McDavid wants to see this roster before he signs. I don’t think he’s waiting till the trade deadline to sign,” he added. “So I believe he will sign. I’m quite sure he’ll sign.”
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McDavid is set to carry a $12.5 million cap hit into the 2025–26 season. A four-year deal would give him flexibility to reassess the team’s trajectory while maintaining long-term leverage — a strategy increasingly common among modern NHL stars.
