As the Edmonton Oilers chase another Stanley Cup run, one question looms: Connor McDavid has yet to sign an extension. Should fans be concerned?
On the surface, the delay raises eyebrows. Negotiations haven’t begun, and McDavid has made it clear he won’t rush the process. Entering the season without a deal inevitably sparks comparisons to Edmonton’s past heartbreaks with departed stars. Prolonged uncertainty could also become a distraction, especially as Leon Draisaitl’s new megadeal raises expectations for McDavid’s next contract.
Still, there is little reason for panic. CEO Jeff Jackson—McDavid’s former agent—has expressed full confidence that a deal will get done. McDavid himself has reiterated that winning in Edmonton remains his priority. The Oilers, meanwhile, are in a stronger position than ever, with financial stability, a Cup-caliber roster, and Draisaitl secured long-term.
Yes, concern is natural when a generational player enters a season without a contract. But the context today is far different from Edmonton’s turbulent past. This is less about McDavid weighing an exit and more about a superstar taking his time.
Oilers fans should stay alert, but not alarmed. When the extension comes—and it almost certainly will—it will reinforce McDavid’s role as the franchise cornerstone and extend Edmonton’s championship window well into the future.
