In a move that has sent shockwaves through the hockey world, Connor McDavid, the undisputed face of the Edmonton Oilers, has decided to stay put—but with a twist. The 28-year-old superstar has inked a two-year, $25 million contract extension with the Oilers, ensuring his presence in Edmonton through the 2027-28 season. But here's where it gets controversial: Why only two years? And this is the part most people miss—McDavid could have tested the free-agent market next summer, potentially commanding an even larger deal. So, what’s really behind this decision?
McDavid’s new deal carries an average annual value of $12.5 million, matching his current eight-year, $100 million contract that expires after this season. Fresh off leading the Oilers to their second consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearance—where they fell to the Florida Panthers—McDavid tied teammate Leon Draisaitl for the postseason scoring lead with 33 points (7 goals, 26 assists) in 22 games. His commitment to Edmonton is undeniable, but the shorter-term deal raises questions about his long-term plans.
Is this a sign of loyalty, or is McDavid keeping his options open? In a recent statement on X, he hinted at continuity, saying, “Our journey here continues.” Yet, when asked about his contract negotiations, McDavid emphasized patience and focus on winning. “I’ll take my time and go through everything,” he said at the Hockey Canada Orientation Camp for the 2026 Olympics. “My only focus is to win in Edmonton. It’s my only focus, maybe next to winning a gold medal with Canada.”
This season marks McDavid’s 11th with the Oilers since being drafted first overall in 2015. His resume is nothing short of legendary: 1,082 points (361 goals, 721 assists) in 712 regular-season games, and 150 points (44 goals, 106 assists) in 96 playoff games. He’s a three-time Hart Trophy winner, four-time Ted Lindsay Award recipient, five-time Art Ross Trophy winner, and even claimed the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2024—despite the Oilers’ Cup Final loss.
Oilers general manager Stan Bowman praised McDavid’s dedication, stating, “Connor’s commitment to our team and our city is surpassed only by his singular focus on bringing a Stanley Cup back to Edmonton.” But with Draisaitl locked in on an eight-year, $112 million deal, why didn’t McDavid follow suit? Could this be a strategic move to reassess his future—or even explore other opportunities—down the line?
McDavid’s former agent, now Oilers CEO and president of hockey operations, Jeff Jackson, will play a key role in negotiations. Bowman has made it clear that McDavid is the team’s top priority, but the player’s deliberate approach suggests he’s weighing all possibilities. “All options are on the table,” McDavid said. “I don’t have a preference either way. I want the group to be focused and ready to roll from Day 1, with no distractions.”
So, what do you think? Is McDavid’s two-year deal a masterstroke of loyalty, or a calculated move to keep his future flexible? Let us know in the comments—this is one hockey conversation you won’t want to miss!
