Edmonton Oilers general manager Stan Bowman provided an update on the ongoing discussions regarding the Connor McDavid contract extension, specifying that no definitive timeline has been set yet. Speaking on the OilersNow radio show in late July 2025, Bowman emphasized that while there have been positive conversations, the team has been giving McDavid space to consider his options.
Bowman explained,
“I’ve had really good conversations with Judd [Moldaver] since the season ended. And I’ve tried to give Conor his space. I think that it’s important a lot. This respects the athlete and their timeline. So, we haven’t had any of those types of detailed discussions yet, but we certainly will. I think we’re very encouraged by all the conversations I’ve had to date. And when the time comes, the time comes.”
McDavid’s Approach to His Contract Extension
Connor McDavid himself addressed questions about his contract extension earlier in June 2025, admitting that he was in no rush to make a decision. The star forward indicated he planned to consult with his agent and family before coming to any conclusions. He stated,
“I’m going to 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 on anything like that.”
Despite the lack of urgency from McDavid’s side, his contract extension remains a priority for the Oilers as they plan for the offseason following their 2024-25 campaign.
Stan Bowman Identifies McDavid Contract as Top Offseason Priority
Bowman reiterated that reaching an agreement with McDavid is the foremost task for management during the offseason. Although he did not provide an exact timetable for a deal, Bowman expressed optimism about upcoming negotiations.
“So, I don’t have a timeline update, but I do expect to have some conversations with him soon and hopefully get that wrapped up,”
he said. This acknowledgment aligns with the organization’s focus on securing its franchise player well before the new season begins.
Industry Insight on Potential Contract Details
Hockey insider Frank Seravalli offered his perspective on the likely structure of McDavid’s next contract during an appearance on Bleacher Report Open Ice. While he acknowledged the uncertain nature of the negotiations, Seravalli speculated that the contract might be shorter than initially expected, estimating a length of approximately four years with an average annual value (AAV) between $16 million and $17.5 million.
He remarked,
“If I were looking at the Connor McDavid situation as best I can handicap it at this point in time. My guess is that it’s not going to be an eight-year deal. It’ll be less than that, probably four, and somewhere between $16 and $17.5 million in AAV. Those are just ballparks. That’s the best that I can glean at this moment in time. I’m not really even confident saying completely that it’s going to be a four-year deal.”
Seravalli also noted McDavid’s significant influence within the team, suggesting that even if a longer-term contract were agreed upon, the player’s leverage could allow him to request a trade or exit if desired.
Context of McDavid’s Contract Discussions Amid Team Dynamics
McDavid’s contract negotiations occur following the Oilers’ participation in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, where they faced the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference Final. The team’s performance and future ambitions underscore the importance of securing McDavid’s commitment. However, the delay in finalizing the contract fuels speculation about potential broader changes within the organization.
The Oilers’ management appears determined to respect McDavid’s timetable while ensuring alignment with the club’s long-term plans. This balancing act reflects the challenges faced by teams when managing high-profile athletes under significant contract considerations.
What This Means for the Oilers Moving Forward
Securing Connor McDavid’s contract extension is crucial for the Oilers as they aim to build a championship-caliber roster. With McDavid still holding the reins on the timing of talks, the team’s patience so far has allowed for respectful negotiations without public pressure. Yet, the urgency to reach a resolution remains high, given the uncertainties surrounding contract terms and team direction.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will remain on Edmonton to see when and how these discussions conclude. The outcome will have far-reaching implications, potentially affecting roster decisions, salary cap management, and the Oilers’ pursuit of another deep playoff run.