Edmonton Oilers Lock In McDavid on a New Two-Year Deal
The Edmonton Oilers have reached a two-year contract extension with superstar Connor McDavid, a move that binds the face of the franchise to the franchise for the near term and aligns the team’s salary commitments with its championship ambitions. Sources familiar with the talks confirmed to TSN’s Ryan Rishaug and Chris Johnston that the deal carries an average annual value below $15 million, a figure that signals both McDavid’s unique value and the Oilers’ desire for a sustainable payroll as they push for deeper playoff runs.
What the Extension Means for McDavid and Edmonton
McDavid, a generational talent who has won three Hart Trophies and led the league in scoring in five of his 10 seasons, will continue to steer the Oilers’ offense. The extension comes as he nears the end of an eight-year, $100 million contract signed in 2017. The deal is designed to keep him in Edmonton through the 2027-28 season while aligning with the team’s salary structure and competitive window.
McDavid’s public sentiment suggested a strong desire to see a commitment to winning before he would fully engage in contract negotiations. His post on X, stating “Our journey here continues,” echoed the notion that this is less a star chasing a new contract and more a continuation of a partnership aimed at sustained competitiveness. The timing of the agreement—announced as the Oilers prepare to open the 2025-26 season against the Calgary Flames—suggests both sides prioritized stability heading into a pivotal year.
Context Within the League
McDavid’s extension arrives in a market that has seen record-setting deals redefine the upper echelon of NHL salaries. Kirill Kaprizov recently reset numbers with an eight-year, $136 million contract carrying a maximum AAV of about $17 million. While Kaprizov’s figure sets a ceiling for star players, the Oilers’ decision to draw the line under $15 million AAV for McDavid reflects a pragmatic approach to team construction, especially given the need to balance core players, depth, and goaltending around a franchise cornerstone.
General manager Stan Bowman has repeatedly emphasized ongoing dialogue with McDavid’s camp and the value of continued conversations. He noted that it’s not a guarantee McDavid would be unsigned at the start of the season, underscoring a cautious, collaborative process in the lead-up to the campaign.
The Road Ahead for Edmonton
With McDavid locked in, the Oilers can focus on building a competitive supporting cast that can complement his playmaking and scoring prowess. The 28-year-old forward posted 26 goals and 100 points in 67 regular-season games last year, and he produced seven goals and 33 points over 22 playoff appearances. The team will be aiming to convert regular-season excellence into extended playoff success, a journey that Edmonton has pursued for two straight Stanley Cup Final losses.
The extension also frees the organization from the distraction of looming free agency questions, allowing coaching staff and front office to concentrate on on-ice development and strategic acquisitions ahead of the season opener against an archrival. The Oilers’ front office has signaled that player development and depth will be critical to sustaining McDavid’s peak years while remaining financially prudent for the long term.
Reaction and What to Watch Next
Industry observers expect McDavid to continue to be at the center of the Oilers’ plans, with his performance likely dictating the franchise’s championship timeline. For fans, the question now shifts to how Edmonton will round out its core and whether the team can translate standout regular seasons into deep playoff runs with McDavid at the helm. As the 2025-26 season unfolds, all eyes will be on how the Oilers’ depth and goaltending hold up in a competitive Pacific Division.
Note: This article reflects reported information from TSN’s insiders and statements from team executives; terms are subject to finalization and league approval.
