Connor McDavid Signs Two-Year Extension With Oilers
-
By Doug Hirdle
- —
Summary:
- Connor McDavid has agreed to a two-year, $25 million deal that will keep him in Edmonton through 2027.
- The contract carries the same $12.5 million annual value as his current one.
- GM Stan Bowman praised McDavid’s leadership and commitment to winning over money.
The Edmonton Oilers locked up its captain with a two-year, $25 million contract extension on Monday, putting an end to months of speculation about his future. The deal doesn’t tie McDavid to the Oilers long-term, but it does calm nerves in Edmonton after back-to-back Stanley Cup Final losses to the Florida Panthers.
McDavid: “Our Journey Here Continues”
McDavid was set to hit free agency next summer, making this negotiation the club’s top priority.
General manager Stan Bowman said,
We’re just excited to get ourselves to where we are today. This is a very exciting day for our organization and for the fans.
The 28-year-old confirmed the news himself on X, writing
While other stars have chased record-breaking contracts this offseason, McDavid chose stability over a massive payday.
His new deal carries the same $12.5 million annual value as his current one, far below what he could earn on the open market. It’s a move that echoes Sidney Crosby’s approach in Pittsburgh, prioritizing team flexibility over personal profit.
Bowman: “What a Leader This Guy Is.”
According to Bowman, that decision came entirely from McDavid.
The players were shocked as well. Like, ‘Holy cow, what a leader this guy is.’ Getting to know Connor over the last year, he’s such a tremendous leader and so motivated to win. That’s a testament to who he is as a person.
Still, the clock is ticking, as the deal gives Edmonton a short window to finally win it all before McDavid’s next contract decision.
Our focus last year was to win, our focus this year is to win. It’s not like we’re planning five years out.
McDavid, known for being deeply involved in team direction, was active in the discussions.
He likes to know what’s coming and how we can get better. He’s got a lot of good ideas, it’s fun to talk hockey with him.
The Oilers also locked up defenseman Jake Walman with a seven-year, $7 million AAV deal, continuing their push to keep their core intact.
