DEAL ACCEPTED: Connor McDavid Inks Historic $112M Extension with Edmonton Oilers, Cementing Future as Franchise Centerpiece
Edmonton, Alberta — July 23, 2025
In a seismic moment not only for the Edmonton Oilers but for the entire National Hockey League, Connor McDavid has officially signed a monumental contract extension worth $112 million, solidifying his role as the face of the franchise for years to come. The deal, which carries an average annual value (AAV) of $14 million over eight years, is the richest in Oilers history and one of the most lucrative in NHL history — a testament to McDavid’s unparalleled impact on and off the ice.
The news, which broke early Wednesday morning, was confirmed by both the team and McDavid’s camp in a joint press conference held at Rogers Place. Standing at the podium in an Oilers-blue suit, McDavid’s expression mixed humility and determination as he addressed fans, teammates, and media.
“Edmonton isn’t just where I play hockey — it’s home,” McDavid said, flanked by Oilers General Manager Ken Holland and Head Coach Kris Knoblauch. “This organization has given me everything: belief, opportunity, and support. I wanted to make sure I gave that same commitment back. I’m here for the long haul — we’re chasing Cups.”
A Legacy Etched in Oil
Since being selected first overall in the 2015 NHL Draft, McDavid has redefined what it means to be a franchise player. With jaw-dropping speed, generational playmaking vision, and an unmatched work ethic, McDavid has already amassed over 1,100 points and multiple Art Ross and Hart Trophy wins before the age of 30.
In the 2024–25 season, McDavid once again led the Oilers deep into the playoffs, with the team falling just short in a gripping seven-game Western Conference Final. Many speculated about his future, especially as rumors of free agency and big-market temptations swirled. But McDavid silenced the doubters with this extension — a move that will see him wear the Oilers’ captain’s “C” through the prime years of his career.
“Connor’s loyalty to this city, this team, and this vision cannot be overstated,” said GM Ken Holland. “This extension is a clear message: The best player in the world believes in what we’re building in Edmonton.”
The Deal: Record-Setting and Team-Friendly?
While the $112 million figure will dominate headlines, analysts have already noted the team-friendly structure of the contract. At an AAV of $14 million, McDavid will remain the highest-paid player in the NHL — but only narrowly above peers like Auston Matthews and Nathan MacKinnon.
McDavid reportedly turned down higher offers and bonus-heavy structures in favor of ensuring cap flexibility for the Oilers to retain key teammates like Leon Draisaitl, Evan Bouchard, and Stuart Skinner. His decision is seen by many as a continuation of his leadership style: selfless, strategic, and relentlessly team-first.
“It’s not just about me,” McDavid said during the press conference. “We’ve got a window here, and I want us to win — not just once, but over and over.”
Reaction Across the NHL
Unsurprisingly, the hockey world reacted swiftly to the news.
Wayne Gretzky, Oilers legend and hockey’s all-time leading scorer, posted on social media:
“Couldn’t be prouder of this young man. Edmonton is lucky to have a leader like Connor. One of the greats, on and off the ice.”
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman released an official statement, calling McDavid’s extension a “victory for the league’s competitive integrity” and praising the Oilers for their “visionary leadership.”
Sports analysts universally lauded the move. ESPN’s Emily Kaplan stated:
“This is more than a contract — it’s a declaration. Connor McDavid believes Edmonton can be the next great hockey dynasty.”
Fans Rejoice: “This Is Our Guy”
For Oilers fans, the deal is more than just numbers — it’s validation.
Outside Rogers Place, fans gathered in celebration upon hearing the announcement. Chants of “Let’s Go Oilers!” rang out, and several fans held homemade signs reading “McDavid 4 Life” and “Captain Forever.” Season ticket holders have already begun pushing demand to record highs, and McDavid jerseys have flown off shelves at an unprecedented rate.
“It’s like signing Gretzky again — that’s how big this is,” said longtime fan Carla Hemings, 61. “McDavid didn’t just commit to Edmonton. He committed to us.”
The Road Ahead
With McDavid now locked in through the 2033–34 season, the Oilers’ mission is clear: bring the Stanley Cup back to Edmonton for the first time since 1990.
The team is expected to build aggressively around McDavid, with rumors swirling about free-agent interest and internal contract extensions. But for now, Oilers management and fans alike are relishing the sense of stability and belief that McDavid’s extension provides.
A Captain’s Promise
The final words of the press conference were telling. McDavid, standing tall with his trademark calmness, looked out over the assembled media and left no doubt about his vision.
“They can say what they want. But I’m not going anywhere. I believe in this team, in this city, and in what we can achieve together. The job’s not done. Not even close.”
And with that, the greatest player of his generation turned a new page — one inked not just in dollars and years, but in loyalty, ambition, and the burning desire
to bring glory back to the City of Champions.