Connor McDavid signed a two-year, $25 million contract with the Edmonton Oilers on Monday.
Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid has officially committed to two more years with the team. The superstar center signed a two-year, $25 million contract on Monday, keeping his average annual value (AAV) at $12.5 million. The new deal begins in the 2026–27 NHL season.
McDavid Extends Edmonton Legacy
McDavid, 28, was entering the final year of his previous eight-year, $100 million contract, signed back in 2017. The Oilers’ leader continues to be the face of the franchise, guiding them to back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances. Despite their repeated losses to the Florida Panthers, McDavid remains committed to Edmonton’s championship mission.
Last season, McDavid was dominant once again. He tied teammate Leon Draisaitl for the postseason scoring lead with 33 points (seven goals and 26 assists) in 22 games.
On X (formerly Twitter), McDavid posted a short but heartfelt message: “Our journey here continues.”
Draisaitl Partnership Strengthens Oilers’ Core
McDavid’s contract follows teammate Leon Draisaitl’s massive eight-year, $112 million deal signed in September 2024. Together, the duo represents one of the NHL’s most dynamic and productive pairings.
Oilers general manager Stan Bowman expressed excitement about keeping McDavid onboard. “This is what Connor wanted,” Bowman explained. “We didn’t negotiate him down. He’s one of a kind — a true leader driven to win. This is a huge day for the Oilers and our fans.”
Taking Time Before Deciding
McDavid had been eligible to sign an extension since July 1 but made it clear he would take his time. Speaking at Hockey Canada’s Olympic Orientation Camp in late August, he said, “My only focus is winning — here in Edmonton and hopefully a gold medal with Team Canada. I wanted to take my time and make the right decision with my family and team.”
The patience paid off. His new deal ensures stability for both him and the Oilers as they aim for another deep playoff run.
A Decade of Brilliance
Drafted first overall in 2015, McDavid has become one of the greatest players in franchise and league history. Over 712 regular-season games, he’s tallied 1,082 points — including 361 goals and 721 assists. In the Stanley Cup Playoffs, he’s added 150 points across 96 games.
McDavid’s list of accolades is staggering:
- 3× Hart Trophy Winner (League MVP)
- 4× Ted Lindsay Award Winner (Most Outstanding Player)
- 5× Art Ross Trophy Winner (Leading Scorer)
- 2024 Conn Smythe Trophy Winner (Playoff MVP)
Even in defeat, McDavid’s excellence shines. His Conn Smythe win in 2024 came despite Edmonton’s seven-game loss in the Cup Final.
Focused on the Present, Not the Future
Bowman emphasized that the Oilers’ mindset remains unchanged. “We’re not planning five years ahead,” he said. “We’re focused on winning now. Connor’s all in — always curious about how to make this team better.”
He added that McDavid’s involvement goes beyond the ice. “He’s incredibly smart, thoughtful, and deeply invested in our direction. Talking hockey with him is always a great experience.”
Oilers Continue Building for Success
Alongside McDavid’s signing, the Oilers announced another key move — defenseman Jake Walman’s seven-year, $49 million extension. His contract, beginning next season, further solidifies Edmonton’s roster depth and long-term vision.
With McDavid’s leadership, Draisaitl’s scoring prowess, and a strengthened defensive core, the Oilers appear determined to chase the Stanley Cup once again — this time, aiming to finish what they started.
