Connor McDavid's Surprising NHL Deal Resetting Market

Connor McDavid has agreed to a new contract with the Edmonton Oilers, just before the start of the 2025-26 NHL season. The deal is for two years with an average annual value of $12.5 million starting from the 2026-27 season, which is $4.5 million less than Kirill Kaprizov's recent contract with the Minnesota Wild.

NHL insiders were surprised by McDavid's decision to sign for a lower amount. Chris Johnston noted that McDavid's commitment to winning in Edmonton was evident throughout the negotiation process. Despite the rising salary cap trend in the NHL, McDavid chose to maintain the same average annual value as his previous contract, showing his dedication to ensuring the team has enough cap space to build a competitive roster.

Pierre LeBrun described McDavid's contract as one of the greatest bargains in NHL history. He emphasized that McDavid's focus is on winning the Stanley Cup, as evidenced by his decision to sign for the same amount as his current contract. Other agents acknowledged McDavid's desire to prioritize team success over maximizing his salary, setting a unique precedent in contract negotiations.

McDavid's decision to sign a two-year deal aligns with his goal of winning a championship within the team's current window of opportunity. The short-term contract allows McDavid to assess the team's competitiveness before committing long-term. While the contract provides flexibility for the Oilers, it also puts pressure on the team to demonstrate their capability as Cup contenders in the coming seasons.

The term of McDavid's contract gives him the option to explore unrestricted free agency in 2028, potentially capitalizing on a higher salary cap environment. With the possibility of earning over $20 million per season in his next deal, McDavid remains focused on his prime years and the opportunity to secure a lucrative contract in the future. His strategic approach to contract negotiations reflects his commitment to achieving success both individually and as part of the Oilers team.