Connor McDavid makes his thoughts on contract extension clear

Connor McDavid has finally addressed his contract situation with Edmonton. On Friday, the superstar captain mentioned that he does not take the future of his career ‘lightly’ at all.

Several reports surfaced this week suggesting that McDavid may not have a deal in place before the start of the regular season. While top Oilers insiders still strongly believe he will eventually re-sign, McDavid’s decision to hold off has sent a ripple of unease through Oil Country.

Speaking to the media at the Oilers’ Captain’s Skates, the 28-year-old admitted he is in no rush to commit stressing that this next deal will define the rest of his career.

“It’s not something I take lightly. It’s not something my family takes lightly. I’ve put everything I have into my career. You only have one chance to do it right,” McDavid said.

“All options are on the table. That would mean length of term. Short term. Long term. Yeah, no term. All options are on the table.”

According to Oilers insider Bob Stauffer, McDavid’s top priority in his next contract is maximizing his chances of winning multiple Stanley Cups. Despite his faith in Edmonton’s roster, the Oilers have fallen short in recent years leaving their superstar skeptical about the team’s long-term outlook.

Management has tried to address the future bringing in young talent like Sam Savoie and Luke Howard, but McDavid seems to want proof the Oilers can sustain contention.

McDavid’s current eight-year $100 million deal originally signed in 2017 made him the league’s highest paid player at the time. With that contract nearing its end, the Oilers now find themselves needing to keep the game’s best player happy, while proving they can finally deliver a championship.

Oilers GM claims Connor McDavid’s contract situation is ‘different’

Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman echoed a patient but cautious tone when speaking to The Athletic:

“You have to approach Connor differently than anyone else because he is different than anyone else. He’s the best player in the world and, as a result, has earned the right to handle this the way he feels right to handle it.”

Bowman added that he believes McDavid when he says he is focused on winning in Edmonton but also acknowledged the organization is at the mercy of its captain’s timeline.

The 28-year-old has already collected every major individual NHL honor including the Hart Trophy, Art Ross and a Conn Smythe. But without a Stanley Cup, the one prize that matters most remains elusive.

For now, patience remains the word out of Edmonton. But for McDavid, and the Oilers, time may be running out.