Connor McDavid Extension Drama Heats Up

With Connor McDavid eligible for free agency next summer, the Oilers GM says early talks are positive, but a short-term mega deal could be coming.

Connor McDavid enters the final year of his eight-year, $100 million contract.

That means he could reach unrestricted free agency in July 2026.

Edmonton GM Stan Bowman says he's had "very good conversations" with Judd Moldaver, McDavid's agent, but also respects his timeline and space.

Bowman said on Oilers Now on CHED 880:

"I've had really good conversations with Judd since the season ended, and I've tried to give Connor his space, and I think that it's important,"

"We haven't had any of those types of detailed discussions yet, but we certainly will, and I think we're very encouraged," he added.

They have not yet begun full contract talks.

Connor McDavid extension talks ignite rumors around Oilers, NHL free agency and long-term future

With two years remaining on his current eight-year contract, fans in Edmonton are already bracing for a rollercoaster.

McDavid has been the face of the franchise since 2015, and any uncertainty about his future sends a ripple across the league.

Oilers general manager Stan Bowman recently opened up about internal conversations with McDavid and his camp. In an interview with TSN, Bowman said he was:

"very encouraged by early talks on a potential extension."

But he also made it clear that no deal is close yet.

According to a recent TSN report, McDavid isn't rushing into anything.

That's not surprising given how close Edmonton came to winning the Stanley Cup last season.

McDavid has always expressed a desire to win in Edmonton, but he's also at the point in his career where long-term stability and success matter more than ever.

His current deal carries a $12.5 million AAV, and many insiders believe a new deal could surpass $14 million per year if signed in today's cap landscape.

To some, this is just early noise. But others believe McDavid could test the market if the Oilers falter again.

As reported by Daily Faceoff, multiple teams are quietly preparing for the possibility McDavid might become available in 2026.

"It's all about winning," one anonymous executive told them. "And if they don't win soon, I wouldn't be shocked if he walks."

Personally, I think McDavid truly loves Edmonton, but he needs to see commitment from the team to stay beyond 2026.

The pressure is now on the Oilers' front office. If they want to keep the league's best player, they'll need more than words.