Potentially Ominous Update On Connor McDavid's Extension Outlook
Insider Chris Johnston writes in The Athletic today that the start of camp is not any type of deadline, as McDavid told the media says he's in no hurry to get it done:
Like I said at the end of June, I had every intention just to take my time with it, and I still feel the same way. Take my time and go through everything... We’re going through it slowly.
But does he even want to have a deal in place by puck drop on Opening Night on October 8th?
I’d say all options are on the table, really. As I said, we’re going through it. I don’t have a preference either way.
But as he continued to address the situation, it was almost contradictory to hear McDavid say that he doesn't want any distractions come the start of the season:
“I want the group to be as focused and dialed in and ready to roll come Day 1 as possible,” said McJesus. “You know, we don’t need any distractions. Taking my time with it, and that’s it.”
Now, before any Oilers fans start to panic too much, he still reiterated that he wants to stay in Edmonton and win a Stanley Cup there.
"I have every intention to win in Edmonton. It’s my only focus, maybe next to winning the gold medal with Canada. But it is my intention to win there".
He added that he's been discussing it all with his family, his agent, and everyone else closely involved.
What will a Connor McDavid extension look like?
Most pundits suggest that The Chosen One will likely choose an extension of about four years in length, with an annual salary that comes in north of $16 million, but likely south of $18M.
In addition to his three Hart Trophies and five scoring titles, McDavid's playoff performance is also unquestioned, having led the Stanley Cup Playoff scoring race three times in the last four years, and winning the Conn Smythe in 2024, despite coming up a couple of goals short of winning the Cup.
Photo: © Perry Nelson-Imagn Images
