Cryptic message has Elliotte Friedman wondering about Connor McDavid's future with Edmonton
Photo credit: USA Today Sports
Connor McDavid reassured the Edmonton fanbase yesterday that he wants to win in Edmonton; it is in fact his primary focus. Yet, Insider Elliotte Friedman believes that may not be the case - McDavid may choose to sign elsewhere.
Connor McDavid's cryptic message interpreted by top-NHL analyst
When you're the best player in the world playing in Edmonton, everything you say can be taken in any number of ways. But when that player's contract with the club is set to expire, then reassurances are needed.
Yet, Elliotte Friedman was a bit surprised by McDavid's stand on the contract talks, and his future, as he enters his final contract-year in 2025-26.
«It's possible he could go back to Edmonton, meet with the Oilers, and say, 'I'm good with what I'm hearing, let's go," Friedman said following Connor's media availability yesterday. "However, he's now warned us that may not be happening. I admit I'm surprised he'd consider not signing before the season.
The HNIC panelist and SN Insider cites distractions as being the main reason for his uncertainty, about why Connor would not chose sign an extension, and be done with it.
«I thought he wouldn't want (journalists and reporters) bothering him all year. We've seen plenty of players affected by uncertainty, but I don't think it will impact McDavid. He's too laser-focused. There are two targets this season-Olympic gold and the Stanley Cup. Nothing will deviate him from that path."
There you have it, then. Connor McDavid is committed to winning, for his country, and for the city of Edmonton.
McDavid's current deal expires July 1, 2026, but is eligible to sign an extension with the Oilers now, for as long as 8-years, and as much as 20% of the team's annual cap, or roughly $20M AAV.
When Connor finally does sign the extensions with Edmonton, he will be the highest-paid player in the NHL, a distinction that is currently held by Connor's pal, Leon Draisaitl at $14M per year.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 28 | 241 ANSWERS Cryptic message has Elliotte Friedman wondering about Connor McDavid's future with Edmonton DO you believe Connor McDavid will be distracted in he doesn't sign extension before the start of 2025-26 season? | ||
| yes | 95 | 39.4 % |
| no | 146 | 60.6 % |
| List of polls | ||