NHL Analyst Suggests Uncommon Path for Connor McDavid’s Next Contract

McDavid is heading into the final season of his eight-year, $100 million deal. He will become extension-eligible starting July 1, but the 28-year-old forward said during his final media availability that he won't rush his decision.

"I don't think there would be any harm — this is me speaking — in Connor McDavid taking a four-year deal and then coming back after that, as the cap is up higher and whatnot, and trying to make sure that he gets paid appropriately," Button said.

Button thinks McDavid should take a cue from Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews and prioritize flexibility over cashing in now by signing a shorter-term deal.

"Right now, at $12.5 million, Connor McDavid has been underpaid for the last three or four years," Button said. "I get everybody looks at an eight-year deal, (but) Auston Matthews signed a four-year deal coming off his last deal when he could have been a free agent.

"I think Connor — it's something he can look at and make sure he doesn't leave any money on the table."

Button, however, made clear that he expects McDavid to remain with the Oilers well into his late 30s and possibly into his 40s.

“I have zero doubt that Connor McDavid is going to be an Edmonton Oiler for the foreseeable future — might be right until he’s forty,” Button said. “He’s earned the right to have a voice with management.”

The Oilers enter the offseason with $11.9 million in cap space, according to PuckPedia.