Connor McDavid’s Future Down To Two Options, Former Maple Leafs Player Speculates

Co-host Nick Alberga backed up the sentiment, dismissing rumors linking McDavid to markets like Los Angeles or New York.

“There was whispers during the Cup Final (that) he'd really look at Los Angeles or the New York Rangers," Alberga said. "I don't buy that. I think it’s Toronto or Edmonton. I genuinely feel that way."

Can the Oilers Convince Connor McDavid to Commit to Edmonton?

Despite making it to the Stanley Cup Final in consecutive seasons, the outcome was the same: the Oilers fell to the Florida Panthers in 2024 and 2025.

McDavid, who tallied 100 points in 67 games last season and led the league in playoff scoring, has made clear his priority going forward, putting winning above all else.

“Winning is the most important thing,” McDavid reiterated following the Oilers’ loss to the Florida Panthers in six games. “If I feel there’s a good window to win here over and over again, then signing is no problem.”

On Wednesday, Oilers general manager Stan Bowman revealed a harsh truth for Edmonton fans, acknowledging that talks between the franchise and the player and his agent are still in the early stages.

“I’ve had really good conversations with Judd Moldaver [McDavid’s agent] since the season ended. I’ve tried to give Connor his space,” Bowman told CHED 880. “We haven’t had any of those types of detailed discussions yet, but we certainly will. When the time comes, the time comes.”

Would the Maple Leafs Fit Connor McDavid If It Comes to That?

It's fair to say Rosehill’s speculation leans on both emotional and fit factors.

McDavid grew up in Ontario, and the Maple Leafs represent the NHL’s most powerful brand and play in the biggest hockey market, which makes for a great on- and off-ice fit for both sides.

If McDavid keeps delaying his decision and the Oilers fail to put together a strong regular season next year, Toronto could have the chance of a lifetime to land a generational NHL player while having both financial power and enough on-ice talent to convince McDavid to join the franchise.

Still, any move away from Edmonton remains speculative. The Oilers are expected to offer McDavid a record-breaking extension that could exceed $17 million annually once the salary cap rises in 2026–27.