In a shocking revelation that has sent shockwaves through the NHL, insider Chris Johnston dropped a bombshell regarding Conor McDavid’s contract situation, leaving fans and teams alike on the edge of their seats. As of now, there have been no discussions about an extension for the Oilers’ superstar, whose current $100 million deal expires in July 2026. With other teams already eyeing the situation, the clock is ticking for Edmonton, and the implications could reshape the league.
Johnston, a trusted voice on TSN, highlighted that it’s been two weeks since McDavid could have initiated talks for an extension, yet silence reigns. “To my knowledge, there’s been no discussions about an extension yet,” Johnston stated, emphasizing the urgency of the moment. The NHL’s salary cap has soared to over $97 million, and with that, McDavid’s market value has skyrocketed. The potential for a record-breaking contract looms large, with whispers that he could command as much as $20 million annually, a figure that would set an unprecedented precedent in the league.
The stakes are high, and Johnston made it clear: while the Oilers remain the frontrunners to retain McDavid, nothing is guaranteed. “I’m sure it has occurred to the Kings. I’m sure it has occurred to the Rangers,” he noted, hinting at the growing list of suitors that could emerge if McDavid enters free agency. Teams like the Maple Leafs, with McDavid’s Ontario roots, and the Golden Knights, following a recent trade involving Mitch Marner, are already plotting their moves.
The pressure is mounting on the Oilers’ management, with General Manager Stan Bowman declaring that re-signing McDavid is their top priority. But without any ongoing negotiations, the team is left in a precarious position. “The team has to show it can win,” Johnston warned. McDavid, who has already led the league in points per game and boasts multiple awards, is not just looking for a lucrative contract—he wants assurance that the Oilers can compete for a championship.
As the NHL offseason unfolds, the silence from McDavid is becoming increasingly deafening. He has made it clear that he is in no rush to discuss his future, but with free agency heating up and other franchises making aggressive moves, the urgency for clarity is palpable. The Oilers are at a crossroads, and the decisions made in the coming weeks could define the franchise for years to come.
With McDavid’s silence persisting, the entire league is holding its breath, waiting for a pivotal moment that could alter the landscape of hockey. As the clock ticks down to July 1, 2025, when McDavid can officially sign a new deal, the question remains: will he stay loyal to the Oilers, or will he chase new opportunities elsewhere? One thing is certain—the NHL is watching closely, and the implications of McDavid’s next move will reverberate throughout the sport. Time is running out, and the stakes have never been higher.
