Insider Lays Out McDavid's Eventual Extension Plan

After hearing the latest from Connor McDavid on what's on his mind as he continues to take his time in deciding on an extension with the Edmonton Oilers, hockey insider Andy Strickland thinks he knows exactly what The Chosen One's choice will eventually be:

Just feels like McDavid is sizing things up to eventually signing a deal in the 4 year, $16-$16.5 million range.
— Andy Strickland (@andystrickland) September 5, 2025

McDavid has no intention of 'breaking the bank' in Edmonton, as CEO Jeff Jackson said this week, and the captain himself said in an exclusive interview that "We’re trying to find a scenario that works for everybody in terms of my family, my family’s security, a deal that makes sense for the team to continue to have success."

"I want to get it right – not only for me but for what's best for the organization."

Those kinds of comments should put Oilers fans at ease. It certainly doesn't sound like someone who's about to bolt.

While McDavid could essentially name his price and term, Strickland's assessment of a four-year deal in the $16-$16.5 million range feels like the right fit for all involved—and it's a team-friendly deal.

With the salary cap expected to rise to $113.5 million for the 2026-27 season—when McDavid's new deal would kick in—a salary of $16.5 million would only represent 14.5% of the cap, far lower than a superstar of McDavid's stature could demand.

He's completing his eight-year, $100 million deal this coming season, with a $12.5 million cap hit.