There’s every chance the best player in the NHL re-signs in Edmonton.
After all, he’s been to the Cup Final two years in a row and has been so close to finally lifting the trophy over his shoulders.
But close doesn’t cut it. And it could mean a new locale for No. 97 come 2026.
McDavid had a good, but not McDavid-like series against the Panthers. Limited by the strong defensive play from Aleksander Barkov and Gustav Forsling, the Oilers captain recorded “just” seven points in six contests.
But, look. You’re the best player in the world. More is going to be expected of you. One goal in six games isn’t enough.
McDavid, 28, will play his cards close to the vest and there’s no reason to think he’ll demand a trade in the offseason. But if Edmonton gets off to a slow start or bounced early in the playoffs next season, the chances are he starts thinking about other places to win a title.
Toronto? New York? Montreal? Vegas? It’s fun being the best and having your pick of teams.