When Connor McDavid signed his two-year, $25 million contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers, the hockey world was stunned. The deal, which carries a $12.5 million average annual value (AAV), mirrors his previous contract and came at a time when stars across the league were securing far bigger paydays.
Yet, according to Oilers general manager Stan Bowman, this decision was entirely McDavid’s call.
Did Connor McDavid Just Change the Market With His $25 Million Deal?
Bowman shared his candid thoughts on Oilers NOW with Bob Stauffer, admitting that he didn’t expect the league’s best player to settle for such a modest figure. “Obviously, I didn’t expect that,” Bowman said.
“Now in hindsight, I probably shouldn’t have been surprised because Connor has always been about the team and putting the team in the best position. He’s not worried about himself or his contract. It’s never been about anything but winning and leading.”
Bowman explained that McDavid’s extension talks were unlike any other negotiation he’d handled in his career. “It wasn’t really about negotiating,” he noted. “Just more about being patient and getting Connor and Judd Moldaver to the point where they felt ultimately got to this point.”
Reports indicate the Oilers had regular discussions with McDavid’s camp but never pushed for a specific number. Instead, they waited for the player to finalize what he felt was fair. The decision came together quickly, with Bowman confirming that McDavid’s camp made the call earlier that day.
How McDavid’s Deal Impacts the Oilers’ Future
The $12.5 million figure is far below projections. Analysts expected the reigning Hart and Conn Smythe winner to command at least $16 million annually, especially after Kirill Kaprizov signed a $17 million deal just days earlier.
But McDavid’s approach prioritizes team flexibility over personal earnings. By leaving significant money on the table, McDavid gave the Oilers more cap space to strengthen their roster. The salary cap is expected to rise to around $104 million next season, which means McDavid’s hit will account for roughly 12% of the total.
That breathing room could allow Bowman to make key additions before the trade deadline, especially in areas like goaltending, which has been a lingering concern.
From a business standpoint, McDavid’s two-year deal is a calculated move. It ensures Edmonton retains its captain without long-term risk while keeping flexibility for future planning.
With Leon Draisaitl earning $14 million AAV and Jake Walman recently signing a $49 million extension, the Oilers are projecting around $80 million in cap commitments for next season.
The short-term nature of McDavid’s contract also serves another purpose. It puts pressure on management to deliver a legitimate Stanley Cup contender now, not later. After years of playoff heartbreak, this move signals urgency and accountability.
The Oilers now have two years to make the most of their captain’s unselfish decision. Connor McDavid is betting on the team, and the team must now deliver on its end.
