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NHL Insider Reveals Connor McDavid's Updated Price to Stay in Edmonton

Originally posted on Hockey Latest | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jul 24, 2025 3:58 PM ET

NHL insider David Pagnotta revealed that if the Oilers want to keep Connor McDavid long-term, they will need to pay him $16 to $17 million per season.

The biggest question when it comes to the Edmonton Oilers is not whether Connor McDavid is going to re-sign but how much his extension will cost. With just one year left on his $12.5 million deal, the league's top player is near the make-or-break point.

If he reaches free agency this time next year, teams league-wide would line up to have their say.

However, Connor McDavid's loyalty to Edmonton is firm. A first overall draft pick in 2015, he's suggested his wish is to provide the Oilers with their first Stanley Cup since the one in 1990.

Most insiders believe he won't leave without careful consideration and open discussion.

On 'Melnick in the Afternoon', NHL insider David Pagnotta predicted McDavid's next deal would be around $16 or $17 million annually for four or five years, a figure that would make him the league's highest-paid player in history.

'My guess is in that $16m range, over a 4 or 5 year extension, 16 to 17, in that vicinity.'
- David Pagnotta

The Oilers will have a ton of money tied up to only a handful of players

And if that happens, the cap situation with the Oilers will get even tighter. With massive deals already in place for Leon Draisaitl, Evan Bouchard, and Darnell Nurse, Edmonton will need to be nimble with roster management.

In spite of the financial burden, the Oilers have infused their forwards with depth during the offseason.

Veterans such as Andrew Mangiapane and prospect depth in Isaac Howard and Matthew Savoie reflect the organization's attempt to provide its stars with a competitive supporting cast.

As Edmonton enters a crucial period, McDavid's extension talks will take center stage. As the salary cap rises, a record contract could be the price of keeping a generational talent and chasing a long-coveted championship.

This article first appeared on Hockey Latest and was syndicated with permission.

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