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P.K. Subban Urges Oilers' Connor McDavid to Weigh Next Move

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Jun 19, 2025 9:45 AM ET

The Edmonton Oilers’ second consecutive Stanley Cup Final loss to the Florida Panthers has reignited debate around Connor McDavid’s future with the franchise as he gets closer to the end of his contract on July 1, 2026.

Former NHL defenseman and current analyst P.K. Subban offered a pointed assessment of the situation in Edmonton, calling out the franchise's management and calling on McDavid to reevaluate his commitment to the Oilers during an "NHL on ESPN" segment.

"Well, personally, I was thinking about this a couple of years ago because I just didn’t see management putting a good enough team around them," Subban said.

The former blueliner thinks the Oilers are failing to build a proper team around McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the clear-cut leaders and superstars of the team.

"McDavid is so great, Leon Draisaitl is so great, that they’ve been able to carry this team," Subban said. "But to win a championship, you’re going to need more pieces than that.

"You look across the ice at the Florida Panthers, and (GM Bill) Zito goes out and trades for (Sam) Reinhart, (Sam) Bennett, (Matthew) Tkachuk, (Brad) Marchand at the deadline, Seth Jones. Picks up (Gustav) Forsling off of waivers—like, these are all acquisitions that have brought them to two Stanley Cups, back-to-back in three finals.

"I haven't seen that in Edmonton."

The former Norris Trophy winner didn’t question McDavid’s loyalty to Edmonton, but suggested the time for difficult decisions may be nearing for the face of the NHL.

“For me, Connor McDavid has got to take a look at this final year on his contract. What’s best for him? What is best for you?” Subban said. “I love Edmonton, trust me. It's an amazing place to play. I know he wants to stay there. But right now, it's about him and what's best for him.

"He deserves to have an opportunity. Maybe it's in Edmonton, but I would be taking a strong look in the mirror at where he needs to be."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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