Contract extension talks for Connor McDavid have stalled as the Edmonton Oilers and their star player have yet to make significant progress. NHL analyst Ryan Rishaug assures fans that this pause in negotiations, occurring in early July after McDavid became eligible for an extension, is not a sign of trouble for the Oilers or the player.
McDavid has one year remaining on his current eight-year, $100 million contract. Since becoming eligible to discuss a new deal on July 1st, the negotiations have entered a holding pattern. According to Rishaug, this is partly due to the team prioritizing free agency and trade activities, with general manager Stan Bowman stepping back temporarily from extension talks.
Current Status of Contract Discussions Between McDavid and the Oilers
Rishaug explained on SportsCentre that the pause in talks is understandable given the emotional toll of another demanding season for McDavid and Edmonton. He said the star center may be taking some needed time to regroup before advancing contract details. The analyst mentioned that initial broad conversations about the team’s future have taken place, but the more detailed financial negotiation hasn’t started.
“I think it’s a holding pattern right now, and I think that’s okay… It was a long, emotional season again for McDavid and the Oilers. So it wouldn’t surprise me if there is a little bit of breathing room that’s needed from McDavid’s end to get his bearings and get settled in.” Rishaug said. (3:13)
“The fact that they’re not right into the nitty-gritty of this right now in terms of contract and dollars and hard negotiations—I don’t view that as concerning at all.” he added.
Rishaug remains confident that a contract extension will be finalized when the time is right, emphasizing that the current standstill is not unusual for such high-stakes negotiations.
McDavid has been instrumental for the Oilers, leading them to consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances despite falling short against Florida in the most recent championship. Over the regular season, McDavid scored 26 goals and amassed 100 points across 67 games, adding another 33 points in 22 playoff games.
Expert Opinions on McDavid’s Contract Outlook and Financial Expectations
On TSN’s FanDuel Overdrive, NHL analyst Martin Biron shared insights into what McDavid’s next contract might look like amid an expected salary cap increase to approximately $103.5 million next year. Under NHL rules, McDavid could sign for up to 20 percent of the salary cap, which is around $20 million annually.
Biron predicted that McDavid may not seek the maximum allowed salary. Instead, he suggested a likely scenario where McDavid signs a shorter-term deal, possibly two years, with an average annual value between $16 million and $18 million.
“I think $18 million is the number, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Connor McDavid, if the Oilers are solid, says, “I’ll go to $16 million on a two-year deal.” But you know that’s coming with strings attached—that in two years, if it’s not good, it’s bye-bye, and I’m gone.”
Biron emphasized the importance for Edmonton to continue strengthening its roster and maintain a championship-caliber team. Without solid improvements, McDavid may consider exploring free agency when the bridge contract concludes, putting pressure on the Oilers to compete at the highest level to retain their star.
What the Pause in Negotiations Means for the Oilers’ Future
The current pause in Connor McDavid contract extension talks reflects a strategic delay rather than a breakdown in relations between the player and team leadership. Both Rishaug and Biron’s perspectives suggest that the Oilers are managing timing carefully, with contract details to be addressed after roster moves are finalized.
Given McDavid’s critical role in Edmonton’s recent successes and the stakes involved, the upcoming negotiations will likely shape the franchise’s trajectory. Securing McDavid on a sustainable deal is essential for the Oilers’ hopes of returning to the Stanley Cup Final and contending for championships in the near future.