Connor McDavid Re-Signs with Edmonton: A New Contract, a Clear Signal
By Rob Reinhart
On October 6, 2025, Connor McDavid — long the face of the Edmonton Oilers — officially committed his future to the franchise, signing a two-year, $25 million extension that will keep him in Edmonton through the 2027–28 season.
The Terms & Context
McDavid’s new deal carries an average annual value (AAV) of $12.5 million, meaning it pays him at the same AAV he’s earned under his current contract.
That said, because it’s a short-term pact, the clock’s ticking: this extension effectively gives him and the Oilers a limited window to chase a championship before having to revisit contract talks again.
The contract begins with the 2026–27 season, meaning the 2025–26 season remains under his existing eight-year, $100 million deal.
Why McDavid Stayed — and What It Means
Loyalty Meets Pragmatism
Edmonton is the only NHL organization McDavid has ever known. Since being drafted first overall in 2015, he’s become not just a superstar, but the emotional and performance anchor of the franchise.
By choosing to stay — even at a deal that isn’t the absolute ceiling he might have commanded — McDavid reinforced that his priorities extend beyond money: he wants a chance to win a Stanley Cup in Edmonton.
A Controlled Risk
A shorter contract gives flexibility to both sides. For McDavid, it leaves open the possibility of re-negotiating under different circumstances later. For the Oilers, it limits long-term risk and ensures they don’t overcommit, especially given salary cap pressures.
Pressure Is On
At the same time, this deal places more onus on the rest of the roster and front office. With McDavid locked in only for two more years after 2025–26, expectations rise: the team must build around him now to contend, rather than waiting for a distant future.
McDavid’s Legacy — And the Road Ahead
Through 712 regular-season games, McDavid has amassed 1,082 points (361 goals, 721 assists) — an elite pace and one of the best per-game scoring rates in the modern era.
He’s a five-time Art Ross winner, three-time Hart Trophy recipient, and recently became only the second skater to win the Conn Smythe Trophy while playing for the losing side in the Stanley Cup Final.
Edmonton pushed McDavid and the team to back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances — though they were defeated both times by the Florida Panthers. His extension signals that he still believes his best chance is in Edmonton.
Reactions Around the Hockey World
General Manager Stan Bowman expressed relief and excitement, citing McDavid’s character, leadership, and devotion to winning in Edmonton.
Analysts noted that McDavid’s willingness to accept the same AAV, rather than push for a maxed-out deal, suggests he’s prioritizing team success over personal earnings.
Fans and commentators see this as both a vote of confidence and a challenge: McDavid has now explicitly committed his near-term future to Edmonton — the question is whether the team can deliver the Cup.
What to Watch Now
Roster Moves & Cap Management
With McDavid’s salary locked in but not overly burdensome, the Oilers have room (relative) to pursue complementary star players or depth pieces to bolster a Stanley Cup run.Performance Under Pressure
Over these next two seasons, expectations will be higher than ever. Every postseason misstep will come under scrutiny.The Next Contract Chapter
When 2027–28 ends, McDavid (then in his early 30s) will be at another crossroads. Will he seek a long-term megadeal or continue with shorter, more flexible commitments?
Bottom Line: Connor McDavid’s extension isn’t just another contract — it’s a statement. He’s staying in Edmonton not out of necessity, but out of conviction: he believes the Oilers can build a Cup-winning core around him. Now, the spotlight turns to the rest of the organization to match that belief with action.