There has been widespread discussion about Connor McDavid’s future once his contract with the Edmonton Oilers expires in 2026. That summer, McDavid will qualify as an unrestricted free agent if he has not reached a new deal with the Oilers. The 2026 free agency period could bring significant movement, with the Toronto Maple Leafs emerging as one potential contender for McDavid’s signature.
NHL insider Chris Johnston recently shared his perspective on the possibility of McDavid joining another team. During a conversation on The Steve Dangle Podcast, Johnston highlighted that the Maple Leafs would likely pursue McDavid should he hit the open market in 2026. He suggested that any of the Original Six teams might consider themselves in contention if their performance is strong enough at that time.
“Of course, the Leafs — they’ve been nuts. But again, I think any of the Original Six teams are probably feeling like they could be in that mix if they’re good enough,” Johnston said (Timestamp: 59:15 onwards).
McDavid has played exclusively for the Oilers since being selected first overall in the 2015 NHL Draft and is now eligible to negotiate an extension. Johnston emphasized that whether McDavid stays in Edmonton or signs elsewhere in 2026 depends heavily on the broader picture rather than simply the financial offer.
“You need to have a plan. If Connor extends in Edmonton or if he ends up signing a free agent contract in 2026 — we all know there’s no negotiation,” he added.
Johnston noted that McDavid will likely dictate his own contract terms. The responsibility for teams vying for him is to demonstrate a strong foundation, a clear plan for success, and how they will build a roster to support him. Offering McDavid a status befitting the league’s top player is a given.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen here, quite honestly. We’re getting a little ahead of ourselves,”
Johnston commented, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding McDavid’s eventual choice.
Currently, McDavid is coming off another remarkable season, producing 26 goals and 100 points in just 67 games. His 33 points in 22 playoff games propelled Edmonton to the Stanley Cup Final once again, underscoring his value as the NHL’s premier player.
Expert View: Elliotte Friedman Predicts McDavid Will Re-Sign with Oilers
NHL analyst Elliotte Friedman offers a different viewpoint, expressing confidence that McDavid will extend his contract with Edmonton. Friedman believes the Oilers are motivated to secure a long-term deal with McDavid during this offseason rather than face the uncertainties of free agency in 2026.
“I’ve been around long enough to know when there’s fear of losing someone. I don’t feel that here. I just don’t,” Friedman said on the “32 Thoughts Podcast”. “We’ll see where this goes during the summer. This is not one I’m worried about. I’m not. I think he extends.”
Despite the Oilers’ back-to-back losses in the Stanley Cup Final, Friedman sensed that McDavid is satisfied with the organization and intends to remain. This view suggests that while other teams may be interested, McDavid’s loyalty to Edmonton could prevail.
Potential Impact of McDavid’s 2026 Free Agency Decision
The possibility of Connor McDavid hitting free agency in 2026 has created intense speculation across the NHL landscape. Should he become available, teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs could mount serious efforts to acquire him, reshaping league dynamics. However, with voices like Friedman expecting McDavid to stay in Edmonton, the Oilers appear poised to build around their star forward for the foreseeable future.
This ongoing situation will likely influence offseason strategies for many franchises as the 2026 free agency period approaches. The NHL community will watch closely how Edmonton positions itself to retain McDavid and how potential suitors prepare to make their case in what could become the most compelling free agency storyline of the next few seasons.