Connor McDavid’s next contract could rewrite Oilers’ and NHL’s future (Image via: Getty Images) The future of Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid is the NHL’s hottest offseason storyline. As the 2025-26 season approaches, the superstar forward remains undecided on a contract extension, keeping fans, management, and rivals guessing. Now, fresh insider reports suggest his next deal could set a new benchmark in hockey history — worth as much as $17.5 million per year.
Connor McDavid’s next contract could be game-changer, says Insider
NHL insider Frank Seravalli believes McDavid’s next contract could fall in the $16–$17.5 million range annually, with a four-year term emerging as the most likely scenario. “This is a pure spitball; I believe it will be somewhere between $16-17.5 million a year on a four-year deal,” Seravalli said, as reported by NHL Rumors and Bleacher Report.McDavid, 28, is entering the final season of the eight-year, $100 million deal he signed in 2017. Eligible to sign an extension since July 1, the Oilers’ captain has yet to commit, sparking widespread speculation about his long-term plans.Daily Faceoff’s Jason Gregor expects McDavid to eventually re-sign, predicting a five-year agreement with an Average Annual Value (AAV) between $15.5 and $16 million. If finalized, the deal would make McDavid the NHL’s highest-paid player when it takes effect in the 2026–27 season, eclipsing current salary records.
What’s at stake for Oilers and NHL in Connor McDavid’s contract talks
Drafted first overall in 2015, McDavid has been the driving force behind Edmonton’s return to Stanley Cup contention, leading them to the Final in recent seasons. His unmatched speed, playmaking, and leadership have made him the face of the franchise and one of the most marketable athletes in the sport.
Connor McDavid FULL Year-End Press Conference
The Oilers’ management has adopted a patient stance, giving McDavid full control over the timing of negotiations. However, the lack of an extension has inevitably stirred trade chatter.Also Read: Connor McDavid turns water baby as wife Lauren shares candid poolside snap ahead of Leon Draisaitl and Celeste Desjardins’ weddingMcDavid’s projected $16–$17.5 million AAV would surpass the current NHL salary record, forcing the Oilers to rework their cap strategy while setting a new benchmark that could drive up contract values for other top-tier players across the league.