Insider Hints at Connor McDavid's Future With the Oilers, But There's a Twist

On his June 18 'Hot Takes', TSN's Bryan Hayes was wondering if McDavid is committed to remaining in Edmonton, especially after the Oilers' second consecutive Stanley Cup Final loss to the Florida Panthers.

Though McDavid becomes eligible to sign an extension on July 1, there is a sense in the league that he can wait.

'I think it's certainly possible. It doesn't mean he's not going to stay in Edmonton long-term. It's almost that he would look at this and say, 'What do I have to do this for this summer?''

- Kevin Hayes

Hayes was quick to emphasize that there isn't urgency from McDavid's end, as, after all, the Oilers are the ones who are under the microscope to prove that they can build a champion around him.

'He could take a page out of the books of other great players in other sports, like LeBron James, like other greats in other sports, put some pressure on the Oilers, force them to continue to be desperate, force them to continue to make moves that will help him and help his cause to win a Stanley Cup.'

- Kevin Hayes

A shorter contract will put more pressure on the Oilers to win

At the end of the day, Stauffer's suggestion of a shorter contract is reasonable. It would leave McDavid in Edmonton with the liberty to re-evaluate his future if the team cannot get over the hump.

In the end, both insiders believe McDavid will sign. The Oilers will do anything, but if the franchise does not start to win soon, McDavid's long-term future in Oil Country could be jeopardized.