ESPN REPORT: Nathan MacKinnon Accepts $94.5M Deal with Edmonton Oilers
In one of the most shocking developments of the NHL offseason, superstar forward Nathan MacKinnon has reportedly signed a blockbuster contract with the Edmonton Oilers, committing to a 7-year deal worth $94.5 million, according to sources close to ESPN.
The deal comes after weeks of speculation about MacKinnonโs future in Colorado. While the 29-year-old forward had expressed loyalty to the Avalanche, internal sources indicate that negotiations stalled over structure and future direction. Edmonton, seizing the opportunity, stepped in with a bold offer and a clear vision for a championship run.
Turning Down Canadaโs Biggest Markets
MacKinnon was reportedly courted heavily by multiple Canadian teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, and Chicago Blackhawks (now playing in a U.S. division). All three franchises presented competitive packages both in salary and endorsement potential. However, insiders say MacKinnon was drawn to Edmontonโs elite offensive core, led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, as well as the cityโs growing momentum and hunger for a Stanley Cup.
โHe believes this group is ready to win right now,โ one source close to the negotiation said. โIt wasnโt about money. It was about legacy.โ
A Massive Shakeup in the West
This signing instantly changes the landscape of the Western Conference. Edmonton, already a powerhouse with McDavid and Draisaitl, now adds another top-five player to its roster. MacKinnon brings elite speed, playmaking, and playoff experience โ including a Stanley Cup championship in 2022 with Colorado.
The Oilers’ front office issued a brief statement Monday morning:
> โWe are thrilled to welcome Nathan to the Edmonton Oilers family. He is a world-class competitor and a proven leader. Our mission is clear: bring the Cup back to Canada.โ
Fallout in Colorado
The news comes as a gut punch to the Avalanche fan base. MacKinnon, drafted first overall in 2013, had spent his entire NHL career in Colorado. Over 10 seasons, he recorded over 800 points and was a finalist for the Hart Trophy multiple times. With his departure, the Avalanche are expected to pivot quickly toward retooling their roster.
Team captain Gabriel Landeskog, who played alongside MacKinnon for a decade, reacted emotionally:
> โItโs tough. He was the heart of this team. But we respect his decision and wish him nothing but the best โ unless we meet in the playoffs.โ
What Comes Next
Edmonton is now considered a top Stanley Cup contender heading into the 2025โ26 season. The addition of MacKinnon gives them arguably the most dangerous forward trio in NHL history, combining speed, intelligence, and scoring power.
While the deal has yet to be officially announced by the NHL, league insiders expect a press conference within the next 24 hours.
This isnโt just a big signing โ it could go down as one of the most significant free-agent moves in modern hockey history.