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1h ago

McDavid Delays Extension Decision as Teams Eye 2026 Options

McDavid’s deliberate timeline is prompting front offices to keep salary flexibility for 2026.

Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl (29) and forward Connor McDavid (97) talk before a face-off (Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-Imagn Images)
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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

  • Speaking on 32 Thoughts, Connor McDavid reiterated he will take his time on an extension and is focused on the 2025–26 season, calling any decision a matter of “feeling.”
  • Leon Draisaitl voiced confidence McDavid will re-sign and said he is giving his captain space as talks proceed.
  • Oilers GM Stan Bowman said he is taking McDavid at his word about wanting to win in Edmonton and confirmed the club is not pursuing Carter Hart, expressing comfort with Stuart Skinner in goal.
  • Insider Pierre LeBrun reported the Maple Leafs are among multiple teams monitoring McDavid’s status and preserving cap flexibility in case he reaches the 2026 market.
  • Goaltending moves continue to shuffle the landscape, with reporting pointing to Carolina and Utah as leading suitors for Hart and Utah GM Bill Armstrong confirming Connor Ingram will be placed on waivers, while veteran Mark Giordano is expected to join the Maple Leafs organization in an executive role.