Nobody expected to wake up on Monday morning to news of a Connor McDavid extension, but that’s exactly what happened. The Edmonton Oilers ’ superstar stunned the hockey world by signing a two-year deal worth $12.5 million per season — the same amount he’s made since he was 21. In a league where stars chase every last dollar, McDavid’s decision was a shock. But it also said everything about who he is and what he wants next.
Connor McDavid chooses legacy over luxury
Connor McDavid’s new deal isn’t about money. It’s about winning. For a player at the peak of his powers — one who’s led his team to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals — not demanding a raise is almost unheard of. “This is unique,” said Oilers GM Stan Bowman. “I mean, I would say there's nothing else like this negotiation.”
While others like Leon Draisaitl and Kirill Kaprizov have set new salary records, McDavid took a step in the opposite direction. He could have easily commanded $18 million or more on the open market. Instead, he signed for less, giving Edmonton flexibility to strengthen their roster. Bowman admitted even the players were shocked: “Like, ‘Holy cow. What a leader this guy is.’”
For McDavid, this was never about setting a market value. It was about keeping Edmonton competitive. His agent Judd Moldaver and Bowman focused not on term or dollars but on the team’s future. “It was really just the other parts… where we're headed, the vision for the team, how we're going to improve,” Bowman said. That attitude has already started shaping the team’s culture — one built on sacrifice and shared purpose.
A calculated move for the Stanley Cup window
The Oilers’ core is entering its prime. Bowman has rebuilt the roster with promising young talent like Matt Savoie, Ike Howard, and Vasily Podkolzin — players who could peak right alongside McDavid’s new timeline. The front office has also added smart depth through players like Jake Walman, who signed a long-term deal Monday.
McDavid’s short contract gives Edmonton two more years to chase the Cup with this core intact. After that, he’ll have every right to reassess — possibly with another championship or two in hand. Until then, his decision sends a powerful message: leadership is about more than performance. It’s about setting a standard.
As Bowman put it, “When you see Connor, it's obvious what he wants: he wants to win.”
And that, more than any dollar figure, is what defines a legend.
Also Read: Could Sidney Crosby really leave Penguins? Insider’s pitch fuels Montreal Canadiens speculation
Connor McDavid chooses legacy over luxury
Connor McDavid’s new deal isn’t about money. It’s about winning. For a player at the peak of his powers — one who’s led his team to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals — not demanding a raise is almost unheard of. “This is unique,” said Oilers GM Stan Bowman. “I mean, I would say there's nothing else like this negotiation.”
THE CAPTAIN 🫡
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) October 6, 2025
The #Oilers have signed forward Connor McDavid to a two-year contract extension with an AAV of $12.5 million! pic.twitter.com/UYpGe4NKkx
While others like Leon Draisaitl and Kirill Kaprizov have set new salary records, McDavid took a step in the opposite direction. He could have easily commanded $18 million or more on the open market. Instead, he signed for less, giving Edmonton flexibility to strengthen their roster. Bowman admitted even the players were shocked: “Like, ‘Holy cow. What a leader this guy is.’”
For McDavid, this was never about setting a market value. It was about keeping Edmonton competitive. His agent Judd Moldaver and Bowman focused not on term or dollars but on the team’s future. “It was really just the other parts… where we're headed, the vision for the team, how we're going to improve,” Bowman said. That attitude has already started shaping the team’s culture — one built on sacrifice and shared purpose.
A calculated move for the Stanley Cup window
The Oilers’ core is entering its prime. Bowman has rebuilt the roster with promising young talent like Matt Savoie, Ike Howard, and Vasily Podkolzin — players who could peak right alongside McDavid’s new timeline. The front office has also added smart depth through players like Jake Walman, who signed a long-term deal Monday.
McDavid’s short contract gives Edmonton two more years to chase the Cup with this core intact. After that, he’ll have every right to reassess — possibly with another championship or two in hand. Until then, his decision sends a powerful message: leadership is about more than performance. It’s about setting a standard.
As Bowman put it, “When you see Connor, it's obvious what he wants: he wants to win.”
And that, more than any dollar figure, is what defines a legend.
Also Read: Could Sidney Crosby really leave Penguins? Insider’s pitch fuels Montreal Canadiens speculation
You may also like
EAM Jaishankar calls for balanced approach to AI, says trust and safety must guide innovation
Major highways, roads closed due to heavy rain, snowfall in J-K
Bihar elections: BJP takes dig at Lalu Prasad Yadav over PM face; mocks 'family problems'
BB 19: Ashnoor Kaur's parents react to her ugly fights, says "Thought of pulling her out of the show"
Despite back-to-back hits, Kantara's Rishab Shetty had left Bengaluru life for his native village. He is still not sure to bring his kids to city for education
