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yesterday

Leafs Among Teams Eyeing 2026 as McDavid Delays Extension

An insider says Toronto is keeping cap flexibility because the Edmonton star is deciding on his own timeline.

Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl (29) and forward Connor McDavid (97) talk before a face-off (Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-Imagn Images)
Image
May 29, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) celebrates scoring a breakaway goal during the game between the Dallas Stars and the Edmonton Oilers in game five of the Western Conference Final of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Mar 1, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) skates against the Carolina Hurricanes during the first period at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Connor McDavid enters the 2025–26 season without a new deal and says he will take his time, reiterating his intention to win in Edmonton.
  • Following McDavid’s 32 Thoughts interview, Pierre LeBrun says the Maple Leafs are among teams considering holding salary space for July 2026.
  • Toronto is frequently cited due to McDavid’s hometown ties and the need to replace top-end production after Mitch Marner’s departure, though any pursuit would be contingent and complex.
  • Contract projections discussed in coverage suggest an offer around $133 million over seven years—about $19 million per season—under current UFA term limits, which would narrow the list of viable bidders.
  • Maple Leafs analyst Jay Rosehill views McDavid’s careful public stance as consistent with a player not committing immediately, keeping leaguewide attention trained on his decision.