Hockey

McDavid: Wants to win in Edmonton, but won’t commit to a new contract
Marc-Olivier Cook
McDavid: Wants to win in Edmonton, but won’t commit to a new contract
Credit: Getty Images

The Oilers have a big deal on the table. A… huge deal, in fact. Connor McDavid, the man who was seen as the savior in Edmonton, is in the final year of his eight-year contract ($12.5 million per season) with the club. Earlier today, McDavid said he's not focused on his new deal, saying that “all options are on the table” – even if he wants to win in Edmonton.He's in no hurry to sign a new contract… which, in effect, may scare fans and the Oilers organization.Imagine if McJesus decided to leave Edmonton via the free agent market on July 1, 2026…CATASTROPHE!

Elliotte Friedman says he's surprised that the Oilers' captain isn't keen on signing a new contract before the 25-26 season begins, but there's one factor in particular that plays into all this: the Oilers have to prove to him that he can win the Stanley Cup in Edmonton.

And even though Leon Draisaitl is here for another eight years (his new contract begins this year and runs until 2033), the Oilers still have work to do to surround #97 properly.

McDavid needs to be convinced that the Oilers will continue to be serious Stanley Cup contenders.

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Elliotte Friedman

Ultimately, McDavid's contract situation could become a problem in Edmonton.In fact… it could become more of a distraction than anything else. Throughout the season, we'll be hearing about the possibility of him leaving if he hasn't yet signed a contract. And in a locker room, that can weigh in the balance. Edmonton's market is intense (less so than Montreal's, but still) and the team's coverage is important. We agree: journalists are going to annoy him all season long with his new contract. And it'll probably be the same with his teammates… The Oilers' management must be under a bit of stress right now. Especially when they hear the best player in the world say that all options are on the table… and that he doesn't seem ready to sign a new contract in Edmonton. This is one to watch, then.

– I like it.

– What a surprise! #OuPas

– This shouldn't happen.

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