“Two years makes a lot of sense,” Connor McDavid said regarding his recent contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers. His decision to sign a two-year deal has raised questions about the team’s future following another disappointing playoff exit.
The Oilers were eliminated in the first round of the NHL playoffs by the Anaheim Ducks in 2026. This marked another setback for a franchise that has struggled to secure a Stanley Cup despite having talented players like McDavid and Leon Draisaitl on their roster. McDavid’s contract, which expires in 2028, leaves room for the team to maneuver under the salary cap.
During the 2025-26 season, the Oilers finished with just 93 points, their lowest total since 2018-19. McDavid was compromised by an ankle injury during the playoffs, which likely impacted his performance. Despite reaching the finals in previous seasons, the team has not won a championship in the last two years.
McDavid’s choice to leave millions of dollars on the table with his contract extension indicates his commitment to winning. Yet, he acknowledged that there are challenges ahead for the Oilers. “There’s no secret that with a team that pushes for it every year like we have for the last number of years… there’s not a ton of young guys coming up in the organization, you know?”
The Oilers must address their roster depth as they aim to compete for a Stanley Cup. With McDavid and Draisaitl leading the charge, fans hope for better results in upcoming seasons.
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