Overview

• Connor McDavid told TSN there is nothing new to report on extension talks, describing the process as deliberate with input from his family and agent.
• He is in the final year of his eight-year contract and can become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2026 if unsigned.
• McDavid said he is focused on the season and plans to shoot more after finishing with 26 goals last year.
• Leon Draisaitl said he wants McDavid to stay in Edmonton but noted the decision will be made by McDavid and his family.
• Elliotte Friedman and other analysts report leaguewide ripple effects, with teams preparing for a possible UFA outcome as McDavid evaluates Edmonton’s 3–5 year contention window and as market benchmarks develop alongside Kirill Kaprizov’s pending deal.