Maple Leafs Considered Connor McDavid Suitor in Pontential 2026 Free Agency

Speaking on “The Steve Dangle Podcast,” Johnston acknowledged what many around the league are thinking, reading the Leafs' position in the McDavid sweepstakes.

“If (McDavid) becomes a free agent, of course, the Leafs (would try to sign him)—they’ve been nuts,” Johnston said. “Any of the Original Six teams are probably feeling like they could be in that mix if they’re good enough.

“At this point in time, I think it's really any of the (contenders).”

Johnston added that McDavid will set his own terms, and teams chasing his signature will need to show him a clear path to contention, not just money.

“You need to have a plan,” Johnston said. “If Connor extends in Edmonton or if he ends up signing a free agent contract in 2026, we all know there’s no negotiation. It's literally, he's going to pick his terms. So it's about everything else around that.”

McDavid, for one, isn’t going to rush any decision. He made that clear during his final media availability of the season.

“If I feel that there’s a good window to win here over and over again, then signing is no problem,” McDavid said. “I’m not in a rush to make any decision, so I don’t think there needs to be any timeline.”