Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers faced another crushing defeat on Tuesday, losing their second straight Stanley Cup Final to the Florida Panthers. The Oilers captain addressed questions about his future with the team, stating he is in “no rush” to make any immediate decisions regarding his contract or long-term plans.
The 28-year-old three-time NHL MVP is currently in the final year of an eight-year, $100 million contract signed in 2017. If he does not agree to an extension, McDavid will become an unrestricted free agent in July 2026. Despite the pressure surrounding his future, he emphasized the importance of taking time to reflect.
It’s only been a couple days since the season ended. You know, take some time to regroup. You know, talk to my agent a little bit and family and all that, and make some decisions whenever that time comes. But there’s no rush, no rush on anything like that.
McDavid was a dominant force during the playoffs this season, contributing seven goals and 26 assists over 22 games. He finished tied as the top scorer for the Oilers alongside teammate Leon Draisaitl, both registering 33 points, underscoring their critical roles in the team’s deep playoff run.
Longstanding Goal of Winning the Stanley Cup Fuels McDavid and Oilers
Since the Edmonton Oilers last won the Stanley Cup in 1990, the team has reached the final three times but fell short on every occasion. McDavid and his teammates remain determined to change that narrative. The ongoing quest for the championship remains the ultimate motivator behind his commitment to the franchise.
The recent loss to the Panthers once again left the team short of the coveted title, but McDavid conveyed that there is a sense of unfinished business yet to be fulfilled with the Oilers.
This core has been together for a long time, And we’ve been building to to this moment all along… Yeah, we’re we’re all in this together, trying to get it over that finish line. With that being said, ultimately, still need to do what’s best for me and my family. That’s who you have to take care of first. But of course, there’s unfinished business here.
Throughout his 10 seasons with Edmonton, McDavid has amassed over 1,000 points (specifically 1,082 points from 361 goals and 721 assists in 712 games), establishing himself as one of the franchise’s greatest players and drawing comparisons to hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, which adds to the expectations placed on him.
McDavid’s Unfinished Business Amid Contract Considerations
At a recent press conference, McDavid elaborated on the collective effort by the Oilers’ core players toward securing a Stanley Cup, while acknowledging the personal and family factors that will influence his next career moves. His approach stresses careful deliberation rather than haste.
The team’s attempt to seize the title was highlighted by a strong start, including a dramatic overtime win in Game 1 of the finals, but ultimately the Florida Panthers surged back, breaking the Oilers’ resolve once more.
McDavid’s measured stance on his future underscores the balance he seeks between professional ambition and family well-being during this uncertain period.
Leon Draisaitl Shares Perspective on McDavid’s Future with the Team
Amid speculation about McDavid’s future, teammate Leon Draisaitl also spoke on the matter, affirming support while refraining from detailed discussions about McDavid’s contract decisions. Draisaitl himself recently secured a significant eight-year, $112 million contract, placing him among the league’s highest-paid players.
I haven’t really talked to Connor about it yet… That’s his situation and he will do what’s best for him and his family. Do I want him here forever? Yes, of course, I think everybody does.
Draisaitl’s comments reflect both respect for McDavid’s autonomy and a desire within the team for the Oilers’ star player to remain part of their core. During this postseason, Draisaitl made NHL history by scoring four overtime goals, cementing his status as a clutch player despite the team’s ultimate loss to the Panthers.
McDavid’s Playoff Performances Continue to Impress Despite Team Losses
Connor McDavid’s recent playoff campaigns have showcased his elite talent, including a previous season where he won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the playoffs. He became only the sixth player to earn this honor despite losing in the finals. However, this year’s playoffs saw that award go to Sam Bennett of the Florida Panthers, whose 15 goals and seven assists were critical to their championship run.
McDavid’s ability to maintain top performance under high pressure highlights his role as a central figure for Edmonton, even as the team continues to seek breaking through to ultimate playoff success.
What Lies Ahead for McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers
With one year left on his current contract and free agency on the horizon in 2026, the question of Connor McDavid’s future remains a significant storyline for the Edmonton Oilers and their fans. His comments about taking time before making decisions indicate a thoughtful, deliberate approach amid considerable emotional weight from repeated near-misses at the Stanley Cup.
The enduring core of the Oilers, including Leon Draisaitl and other key players, have been building towards this moment for years, and McDavid’s acknowledgment of “unfinished business” suggests the pursuit of glory will continue to define the team’s direction.
As McDavid weighs his options, balancing personal priorities alongside professional ambitions, the hockey world watches closely to see if he will recommit to Edmonton or explore opportunities elsewhere once free agency arrives. For now, the focus remains on regrouping and preparing for the next challenge.