Oilers face critical offseason as GM Stan Bowman calls Connor McDavid future a franchise-defining priority

After coming painfully close to a Stanley Cup title for the second consecutive season, the Edmonton Oilers now face an even bigger challenge: securing the long-term future of their franchise cornerstone. With his current contract set to expire after the 2025–26 season, Connor McDavid’s future has officially become the team’s top agenda item.

General manager Stan Bowman, who stepped into his role this year, made it clear that locking in the superstar center is not just important—it’s essential. McDavid, fresh off a 100-point regular season and a dominant playoff performance, becomes eligible to sign a contract extension starting July 1, 2025.

“Connor’s the best player in the League, the most important player in the League, he’s our captain, he’s our leader and certainly he’s a No. 1 priority,” Bowman said Friday, according to NHL.com. “We’re going to do this on his timeline—but when he’s ready, we’re ready.”

Championship goals will shape McDavid’s decision

At 28 years old, McDavid has made one thing crystal clear: his next contract hinges on one factor—his pursuit of the Stanley Cup, the one major trophy still absent from his illustrious resume. “There’s no question Connor is all about winning,” Bowman explained. “He’s not driven by stats or money—he just wants that championship.”

Connor McDavid #97 and Mattias Janmark #13 of the Edmonton Oilers react after being defeated by the Florida Panthers in Game Six of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena on June 17, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Already a three-time Hart Trophy winner, five-time Art Ross recipient, and four-time Ted Lindsay Award honoree, McDavid’s on-ice brilliance is undeniable. However, Edmonton fell short again this postseason, losing to the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final for the second straight year.

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Connor McDavid reveals one condition to sign contract extension with Oilers after second Stanley Cup Final loss vs Panthers

Cap pressure builds as roster faces overhaul

While McDavid contemplates his next steps, the Oilers are grappling with significant roster decisions. Seven players are approaching unrestricted free agency, including veterans like Corey Perry, Jeff Skinner, and Connor Brown. Meanwhile, defenseman Evan Bouchard—a restricted free agent—remains a priority for contract renewal.

One positive note for Edmonton: star teammate Leon Draisaitl already secured his future in the organization with an eight-year, $112 million contract extension last September. Though Draisaitl hasn’t publicly urged McDavid to follow suit, their shared mission and chemistry speak volumes.

“We all have the same goal here,” Bowman emphasized. “It’s about doing what it takes to win. And that’s what Connor is all about too.”

A leadership legacy that goes beyond the ice

Bowman also praised McDavid’s influence off the ice, highlighting his character and locker room presence. “He’s an incredible teammate. I’ve been so impressed with the things people don’t see,” Bowman said. “He’s a fantastic person and a great leader.”