Agent Poll Offers Bold Predictions on Connor McDavid’s Next Contract

Connor McDavid is unquestionably the best player in the world, yet he currently isn’t—and won’t be— the highest-paid player in the NHL for at least two more years after this season.

He made that choice by signing a two-year, $25 million extension with the Oilers in October to stay at a $12.5 million average annual salary, providing Edmonton with more flexibility to build out the rest of its roster. It’s yet to be seen whether or not that works out for McDavid and the Oilers, though no matter what happens, agents around the league believe he’s poised to cash in come 2028–29.

In a recent agent poll article from The Athletic, one of the questions was who will be the highest-paid player in hockey by 2028–29. McDavid earned 13 of 21 votes, with one agent suggesting he could get $20 million per season, while another threw out the Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Rangers as potential destinations.

“With several big names coming up between now and then, the vast majority of agents believe it’ll be Connor McDavid who sets that new ceiling after taking a steeply discounted two-year extension with the Oilers this season.

On McDavid: “McDavid will get whatever he wants. I think he’s going to be $20 (million), and I don’t think San Jose is going to give Celebrini that yet. But it wouldn’t surprise me. He’s that good.” On McDavid, with destinations: “McDavid’s new contract with the Leafs (or Rangers).”

The 29-year-old McDavid’s extension in Edmonton will kick in to start next season (2026-27) and run through the 2028-29 campaign.