NHL players reveal opinions on McDavid's future in Edmonton
Photo credit: Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images
Recently, The Athletic surveyed 120 NHL players in an anonymous poll, asking if they believed Connor McDavid would stay in Edmonton, or leave once his contract expires.
Of course, this is not a new topic. Prior to signing his 2-year extension with Edmonton on October 6, many had speculated that McDavid would sign elsewhere.
He didn't and will now remain an Edmonton Oiler until the end of the 2027-28 season.
Unless he re-signs with Edmonton again. And therein lies the topic of the anonymous poll, from which 43% predicted Connor will choose to play somewhere else.
Here are some comments from the 43% who think he'll leave Edmonton:
I think he's going to find his way home.
McDavid's out. I'm going to say New York Rangers.
Unfortunately, there's going to be a lot of frustrated Edmontonians, but I think he'll be in L.A. or Anaheim
If they don't win the Stanley Cup, he's going to play on a different team.
McDavid's out. I'm going to say New York Rangers.
Unfortunately, there's going to be a lot of frustrated Edmontonians, but I think he'll be in L.A. or Anaheim
If they don't win the Stanley Cup, he's going to play on a different team.
One NHL player suggested McDavid would opt out of playing in Canada altogether, citing the pressure is just too great in his native country.
Then again, the other 57% are convinced McDavid will remain an Edmonton Oiler, suggesting the short-term deal he signed reflects confidence that his team will win a Cup in the next three years.
The hometown discount Connor gave the club is an indication this is likely the case.
I think him taking another two years in Edmonton really showed that he wants to win there. I could see him staying around.
I think this is kind of a prove-it for the GM and ownership,» another said.
I get the vibe that McDavid, he just wants to win there.
I think this is kind of a prove-it for the GM and ownership,» another said.
I get the vibe that McDavid, he just wants to win there.
The question today is, have the Oilers done everything it can this season to win a Stanley Cup? Well, despite their improved play recently, I'd say they have not.
Yet, there is a lot of hockey still left to play; anything can happen between now and the trade-deadline. Stan Bowman may yet surprise us all.
We may see a trade for a goaltender that can take the Oilers all the way to the Finals and win, and watch McDavid hoist the Stanley Cup.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 9 | 748 ANSWERS NHL players reveal opinions on McDavid's future in Edmonton Will Connor McDavid leave Edmonton if they don't win a Cup in the next 3 years? | ||
| yes | 621 | 83 % |
| no | 127 | 17 % |
| List of polls | ||