Edmonton, July 10, 2025 — In the wake of the Oilers’ heartbreaking loss in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final to the Florida Panthers, star centre Connor McDavid found himself at the centre of mounting speculation about whether he’ll remain in Edmonton past next season—or test free agency in 2026.
No Rush, No Regrets
Following Game 6, McDavid—now just one year away from unrestricted free agency—was measured in his response about what lies ahead. Reporters asked him if he sees himself staying with the Oilers. He responded:
“It’s only been a couple days since the season ended… I’m going to take some time to regroup, talk to my agent, family… there’s no rush on anything like that.”
McDavid reaffirmed that winning remains his top priority:
“Winning is the most important thing. If I feel there’s a good window to win here over and over again, then signing is no problem.”
His tone was clear: committed to careful consideration, but open to both re-signing or exploring new avenues.
Oilers Team Present, Future Uncertain
General Manager Stan Bowman echoed McDavid’s approach, calling Connor the team’s “No. 1 priority” and acknowledging:
“He’s earned the right for us to be respectful of his time.”
With his contract ending in July 2026, McDavid and Edmonton face high-stakes talks in the off-season—ones that will determine if he stays or becomes the first generational NHL talent to hit open free agency in peak prime. The Motivating Factor: Championship—or Change
Despite his dominant regular seasons (eight 100-point seasons in nine years), McDavid remains trophy-less. His playoff runs have fallen short once again, and he’s laser-focused on the ultimate goal:
“This core has been building all along. We’ve been through endless disappointments and good times… We’re all in this together, trying to get it over that finish line.”
Yet he didn’t rule out exploring opportunities if he senses Edmonton can’t deliver a legitimate Cup push.
Rumored Free Agency Market
Insiders believe several contenders—such as the Toronto Maple Leafs, Florida Panthers, New York Rangers, Boston Bruins, and others—could make serious offers if McDavid hits open agency.
Oilers GM Bowman faces a delicate balancing act: keep the core together, address defense and goaltending weaknesses, and build a support cast that convinces McDavid a path to championships exists.
A High-Stakes Decision
Contract Power: McDavid’s agent, Judd Moldaver, may push for 3–5 year term—echoing moves made for other superstars—rather than the eight-year deals typical of the NHL’s max. His next contract could set a new AAV record ($15.5 M–$19 M).
Legacy at Stake: Should McDavid walk in 2026, NHL history could shift dramatically—no star of his caliber has reached free agency in their prime.
The Final Take
Connor McDavid—a generational talent with 5 Art Ross trophies, 3 Hart trophies, and still chasing a first Cup—has the NHL on edge. If the Oilers can deliver a clear championship blueprint, he may stay. But if they falter again, his potential move could reshape the league.
For Edmonton and its passionate fans, the message couldn’t be clearer: time is running out—and a deal year window is quickly closing.
