Connor McDavid is expected to begin the 2025-26 NHL season without a contract extension in place, something that seemed unlikely only a few months ago. The Edmonton Oilers captain, considered by many the best player in hockey, is entering the final season of his eight-year, $100 million deal.
Eligible for an extension since July 1, McDavid has yet to move forward with negotiations.
Will Connor McDavid Sign an Extension Before the 2025-26 Season?
Insider John Shannon recently explained that there is growing unease inside the Oilers’ offices. Speaking on the 100% Hockey podcast, he noted, “There are people in the Oilers office holding their breath,” adding that McDavid is in no hurry and will head into the season without a new agreement.
John Shannon: Re McDavid extension: I think there’s people in the Oilers office holding their breath; Connor’s in no hurry; he’s going to go into the regular season without a new contract – 100% Hockey (8/28)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) August 29, 2025
That sets the stage for plenty of uncertainty. The timeline for talks remains unclear, and the reason behind the delay has been left open to speculation. Some believe McDavid wants to assess the Oilers’ direction before making a long-term commitment.
“As long as Connor can weather the storm of answering questions, and he’ll manage that in camp, then take your time and do it right and make sure that everybody’s on the same page. Because quite frankly the negotiations haven’t really started yet. They haven’t started yet,” Shannon added.
Edmonton’s future revolves around Connor McDavid. At 28 years old, he remains at the peak of his career. Last season, he produced 100 points in just 67 games and 33 more in the playoffs.
His next contract is expected to reset the market, with reports suggesting an annual salary in the $16 million to $17.5 million range.
Still, McDavid has not hinted at any desire to leave. At Hockey Canada’s Olympic orientation camp, he made it clear his focus was winning in Edmonton and chasing a gold medal with Team Canada. “I’ll take my time going through it with my family, my agent and everybody involved. We’re going through it slowly,” he said.
The question now is what form his next deal might take. A long-term extension would provide stability for the Oilers. A shorter agreement, however, would keep McDavid’s options open and prolong the uncertainty surrounding the franchise.
Pressure Building in Edmonton
Oilers CEO Jeff Jackson has publicly downplayed concerns, insisting the process will be straightforward once it begins. He pointed to his strong relationship with McDavid as a reason for confidence, saying talks “won’t be a long negotiation.”
That optimism will be tested if the Oilers start slowly this season. Without an extension in place, outside speculation will only intensify. Teams such as the Rangers, Maple Leafs, and Kings have already been mentioned as possible destinations if McDavid were to test free agency in 2026.
For now, Edmonton has no choice but to wait. McDavid seems content managing the process on his own terms, even if that means answering questions all season long.
