The Edmonton Oilers suffered their second straight Stanley Cup Final defeat to the Florida Panthers, sparking renewed discussion about Connor McDavid’s future with the team as his contract nears its end in July 2026. This contract timeline has intensified speculation on whether McDavid will continue with the Oilers or seek new opportunities elsewhere.
Former NHL defenseman and current analyst P.K. Subban weighed in on the situation in a recent NHL on ESPN segment, expressing concerns about Edmonton’s ability to assemble a strong supporting lineup around McDavid. Subban highlighted shortcomings in the franchise’s management and advised McDavid to seriously evaluate his future with the team.
The Need for a Stronger Supporting Team Around McDavid and Draisaitl
Subban emphasized that although Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are exceptional talents who have carried the Oilers as their leading stars, the team’s recent failures indicate a lack of sufficient support. He pointed out that winning a Stanley Cup requires more than just two standout players.
To illustrate this, Subban compared the Oilers’ approach with that of the Florida Panthers, praising Panthers general manager Bill Zito for aggressively strengthening his roster. Zito’s deadline trades brought in key players such as Sam Reinhart, Sam Bennett, Matthew Tkachuk, Brad Marchand, and Seth Jones, along with reclaiming Gustav Forsling off waivers. These moves, according to Subban, have been instrumental in the Panthers reaching back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals and winning two championships in three years.
“Well, personally, I was thinking about this a couple of years ago because I just didn’t see management putting a good enough team around them,”
Subban said.
“McDavid is so great, Leon Draisaitl is so great, that they’ve been able to carry this team. But to win a championship, you’re going to need more pieces than that.”
—P.K. Subban, NHL Analyst
“I haven’t seen that in Edmonton.”
—P.K. Subban, NHL Analyst
Subban Encourages McDavid to Reflect on His Career Future
While Subban refrained from doubting McDavid’s commitment to the Oilers, he stressed that the team’s inability to build around its stars places the captain in a challenging position. With McDavid’s contract reaching its final year, Subban urged him to consider what scenario would best serve his ambitions and legacy.
“For me, Connor McDavid has got to take a look at this final year on his contract. What’s best for him? What is best for you?”
—P.K. Subban, NHL Analyst
“I love Edmonton, trust me. It’s an amazing place to play. I know he wants to stay there. But right now, it’s about him and what’s best for him.”
—P.K. Subban, NHL Analyst
“He deserves to have an opportunity. Maybe it’s in Edmonton, but I would be taking a strong look in the mirror at where he needs to be.”
—P.K. Subban, NHL Analyst
The Significance of McDavid’s Next Contract Decision
Connor McDavid’s contemplation of his future is crucial as it will shape the direction of the Oilers franchise. If Edmonton fails to strengthen its roster, the two-time Hart Trophy winner may seek to join a team more positioned to contend immediately. This moment is pivotal for both McDavid’s career and the legacy of the Oilers. The franchise faces significant pressure to prove it can support its superstar and build a championship-winning team going forward.
The outcome of McDavid’s decision in 2026 will likely influence the NHL landscape for years, given his status as the league’s premier center and most dynamic player. Fans and analysts alike will closely watch how Edmonton responds to recent disappointments and whether they can assemble a roster capable of fulfilling McDavid’s championship aspirations.