Oilers GM Optimistic About Connor McDavid Extension Talks

 

Oilers GM Optimistic About Connor McDavid Extension Talks

Edmonton Oilers general manager Stan Bowman expressed confidence this week that franchise cornerstone Connor McDavid will commit to a long-term contract extension, stating, “He wants nothing more than to win in Edmonton.”

McDavid is entering the final year of his eight-year, $100 million deal, which has averaged $12.5 million annually. His salary for the 2025–26 season is set at $10 million—currently tied for 25th highest in the NHL. In contrast, teammate Leon Draisaitl will lead the league in earnings this season at $16.5 million.

McDavid’s résumé more than justifies a substantial raise. The 2015 No. 1 overall pick has captured the Art Ross Trophy five times and earned four Ted Lindsay Awards as the league’s most outstanding player, as voted by his peers. He’s also been instrumental in guiding the Oilers to six straight playoff appearances and back-to-back Stanley Cup Final runs.

“I take him at his word,” Bowman said when asked about the timing of a potential extension. “He’s going through his own process, and you have to understand and respect that. When he’s ready, he’ll be ready.”

Last season, McDavid tallied 26 goals and 74 assists across 67 games, marking his fifth consecutive 100-point campaign and eighth in nine seasons. Over his 10-year career, he’s amassed 361 goals and 721 assists for a total of 1,082 points in 712 games.

“We’ve had multiple conversations,” Bowman added. “He’s been consistent with what he’s told the media and with what he’s told me. We just take it from there.”