The Edmonton Oilers are regrouping after suffering another painful loss in the Stanley Cup Final. The city is still buzzing about how close they came, how much fight was left in the tank, and how bitter it felt to see the Florida Panthers celebrating with the Cup again. But as the team turns the page to a new season, the storyline hanging over everything isn’t just redemption. It’s Connor McDavid’s future.
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McDavid has one year left on his contract, and while nobody doubts the Oilers want him locked up for life, the bigger question is when he’ll make that commitment—and how it all comes together.
McDavid’s Taking His Time—and That’s Fair
At Canada’s Olympic camp earlier this summer, McDavid didn’t dodge the questions. He didn’t give away much either. His answers were calm, measured, and precisely what you’d expect from a superstar who knows every word will be dissected.
He made it clear he’s focused on the present—winning in Edmonton this year—and that any long-term decision will come in due time, with input from his family and his agent. He didn’t deliver a headline-grabbing soundbite, and why would he? For a player in his position, this isn’t a quick decision. It’s about legacy, loyalty, and whether the Oilers can finally get over the hump.
The Oilers Are Playing It Smart, Not Desperate
On the Oilers’ side, there’s no sense of panic. GM Stan Bowman and CEO Jeff Jackson have built a good working relationship with McDavid’s camp. They’re not pressuring him for an answer. They don’t need to.
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The foundation is in place, and conversations will occur when the time is right; both sides seem to understand that timing is crucial. If talks heat up quietly this fall, that would be great. If not, that’s fine too. The key is ensuring the deal aligns with both McDavid’s needs and the team’s future.
For the Oilers, the Cap Space Is Tight and Stakes Are High
The numbers are no secret. Edmonton already has more than $46 million committed to McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Darnell…
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