Will Connor McDavid Forge A New Path With His Next NHL Contract? - Forbes

This article by Carol Schram examines Connor McDavid's ongoing contract extension negotiations with the Edmonton Oilers as training camp approaches.

McDavid became eligible for a new deal on July 1 but continues taking his time with negotiations, emphasizing his commitment to winning in Edmonton while navigating a changing salary cap landscape. The piece analyzes recent precedents of star players signing extensions, noting that top earners like Leon Draisaitl, Auston Matthews, and Nathan MacKinnon have varied timing approaches. McDavid's strong ties to Edmonton include his friendship with Draisaitl, his wife's local business ventures, and the team's recent Stanley Cup Finals appearances.

• McDavid's current $12.5 million cap hit ranks fourth-highest for 2025-26 among players who signed as impending UFAs
• Recent examples show star players sometimes wait until training camp or even during the season to finalize extensions
• NHL insider John Shannon believes McDavid won't announce his deal before the regular season begins
• The Oilers open preseason September 21 against Calgary, with their regular season starting October 8