The Toronto Maple Leafs are being urged to proactively plan for Connor McDavid’s impending free agency in 2026, as the Edmonton Oilers captain approaches the end of his current contract. Experts warn that overlooking preparations for McDavid’s availability next year would be a critical error for the team‘s management.

Adam Wylde, co-host of the SDPN podcast, stressed that the Maple Leafs must approach the upcoming offseason with the mindset that McDavid could be on the market. He argued that the franchise needs a detailed strategy to strengthen the team and position itself as a viable destination for one of hockey’s top players.

Importance of Early Planning for McDavid’s Potential Move

Wylde highlighted that the Maple Leafs cannot afford to ignore the possibility that McDavid might enter free agency, emphasizing the urgency of building a cohesive and competitive roster. He believes that the team must learn to play more consistently as a unit, moving beyond individual talent to create a stronger collective effort.

“The Toronto Maple Leafs need to be planning for Connor McDavid’s free agency. If you’re not, then you should all be fired if it comes around, like if he signs in August. But this free agency, you have to treat it like Connor’s gonna be a free agent next year. You have to have a plan for that. If you’re the Leafs, plan to take a on paper, step back and teach this team how to play like a team,” Wylde said.

Despite recognizing the Maple Leafs’ improvements this season, including significant victories over the Florida Panthers, Wylde pointed out the need for greater lineup consistency to enhance their attractiveness to McDavid. Adding a player of his caliber could dramatically improve Toronto’s playoff outlook and change the dynamics of the team.

Connor McDavid’s Current Contract and Future Decisions

Connor McDavid is entering the final year of his lucrative eight-year, $100 million contract with the Oilers. He is eligible to sign an extension this summer but will become an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season unless he agrees to a new deal beforehand. The potential value of a new contract for McDavid remains a topic of interest among fans and analysts alike.

McDavid’s Response to Future Speculations After Another Finals Loss

After the Edmonton Oilers lost in the Stanley Cup Finals for a second consecutive year to the Florida Panthers, questions arose regarding McDavid’s commitment to the team long-term. However, McDavid addressed these rumors cautiously, indicating that he is taking time to carefully consider his options without rushing his decision.

“As you said, yeah, it’s only been a couple days since the season ended. take some time to regroup, talk to my agent a little bit, and family and all that, and make some decisions when, whenever that time comes. But there’s no rush. No rush, anything like that,” he said.

McDavid’s performance in the playoffs was impressive, as he tied teammate Leon Draisaitl for the highest postseason points total with 33, reaffirming his status as one of the league’s premier players.

Implications for the Maple Leafs and the NHL Landscape

The Maple Leafs face a restless offseason as they consider their approach to McDavid’s potential arrival, knowing his addition could reshape their competitive chances significantly. How Toronto navigates this period will likely influence their ability to compete at the highest level in coming seasons. McDavid’s ultimate decision could also shift power balances across the NHL, making the 2026 free agency period one of the most critical in recent history.