The Edmonton Oilershave taken the next significant step in their offseason by sending top executives to Ontario for in-person talks with Judd Moldaver, the agent of franchise cornerstone Connor McDavid. With McDavid now eligible to sign a contract extension, the organization is eager to engage directly.
General manager Stan Bowman and CEO of Hockey Operations Jeff Jackson — who formerly represented McDavid — are leading the negotiations. Their trip marks a shift from speculation to action as the Oilers attempt to lay the groundwork for what could be the most high-profile contract in NHL history.
According to TSN’s Ryan Rishaug, the discussions are “broader conversations about the organization and direction” rather than immediate contract figures. Talks are not expected to conclude quickly and will likely extend “well past July 1.”
Leadership, patience, and priority
Bowman, who joined the Oilers after the 2024 season, emphasized the importance of letting McDavid set the pace. “Connor’s the best player in the league, the most important player in the league,” he said, according to Oilersnation.com. “He’s our captain, he’s our leader… he’s the number one priority.”
That sentiment was echoed during Bowman’s public comments last week, as he stressed the need to respect McDavid’s process following the team’s Stanley Cup Final loss. “He’s earned the right for us to be respectful of his timing… Connor’s going to drive that process,” he said.
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NHL News: Connor McDavid reportedly set to break from tradition in upcoming contract talks
McDavid, 28, enters the final year of his eight-year, $100 million deal signed in 2017. Though he did not hint at departure outright, his post-playoff media availability included a statement that left the door slightly ajar: “We’re all in this together… but we still need to do what’s best for me and my family.”
Lessons from Toronto?
Moldaver also represents Auston Matthews, whose contract choices with the Maple Leafs — one five-year and another four-year deal — have fueled speculation that McDavid may seek a similar mid-length structure.
The superstar center has amassed 361 goals and 1,082 points in 712 regular season games, along with 150 points in 96 postseason appearances. With his current $12.5 million AAV deal ending in 2026, McDavid is widely expected to become the highest-paid player in NHL history once he inks his next agreement.
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The Oilers are making it clear: whatever the outcome, they intend to do everything possible to ensure McDavid’s long-term future remains in Edmonton.
