NHL insider reveals his side of viral McDavid interview this offseason
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On a recent podcast, NHL analyst Kyle Bukauskus spoke about the widely viewed and talked about 32 Thoughts interview with Connor McDavid and its implications concerning his future.
Much of what Connor McDavid said in the interview wasn't new, of course, as analysts and fans alike had speculated at length about his extension and future with the Oilers.
McDavid's short-term deal leaves room for more speculation about his future
He ultimately chose to remain in Edmonton, but for only two more years, a term that left some wondering why McDavid didn't sign for much longer, as Bukauskas implies here:
None of us thought that might catch a bit of traction. Then later that night - when he talked about how beyond this year remains to be seen - that went everywhere.
Honestly, I left there thinking he knows exactly what he's going to do. I thought he was going to remain here, that it wouldn't be long term. But short term, I thought he was going to stay here.
- Kyle Bukauskas
Honestly, I left there thinking he knows exactly what he's going to do. I thought he was going to remain here, that it wouldn't be long term. But short term, I thought he was going to stay here.
- Kyle Bukauskas
Many in the hockey world see the shorter term as putting pressure on the Edmonton Oilers organization to build a winning team within this timeframe, especially with the Stanley Cup still elusive for McDavid.
As one analyst put it, 'The clock is officially ticking'. The deal gives Edmonton two more guaranteed seasons (2026-27 and 2027-28) to contend for a championship before McDavid's contract expires again.
Yet, the worry for Oilers' fans is that the short term provides McDavid the flexibility to potentially re-evaluate his options after the contract expires in 2028, aligning with the rising salary cap and potential for even higher earnings later.
Despite McDavid's stated commitment to winning in Edmonton, the shorter term inevitably fuels discussion, particularly among fans outside of Edmonton, about the possibility of him eventually leaving the team.
