NHL: Stanley Cup Final-Edmonton Oilers at Florida Panthers - Source: Imagn — NHL insider Chris Johnston talks about Connor McDavid's contract (Credit: IMAGN)

NHL insider opines how Leon Draisaitl's contract extension could impact Connor McDavid's Oilers future

Modified Sep 12, 2024 17:50 GMT

Leon Draisaitl's new $112 million contract extension has raised questions about how it may affect Connor McDavid's future with the Oilers. TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston discussed this, explaining that McDavid cannot sign an extension until next summer. However, Johnston emphasized that McDavid's desire to win will play a key role in his decision to stay.

"Well, I think on some level we can put it to rest just in terms of there's not an actionable item here. You can't even sign a deal until next summer. But I don't know that it can be entirely put to rest until he does finally get his signature on a deal. Perhaps it'll be next summer, perhaps closer to 2026 when he's a free agent."

McDavid is in the seventh season of an eight-year, $100 million contract. Last season, McDavid had 32 goals and 100 assists. He led the Oilers to the Stanley Cup Final, where they lost in seven games to the Florida Panthers. McDavid won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP, despite the loss.

"I think we should all focus on that," Johnston said. "McDavid wants to win. He wants to play somewhere where he feels he has a chance to win the Stanley Cup."

Johnston said if the Oilers remain a top team, the chances of McDavid staying are high.

"Obviously, he and Leon Draisaitl are very good friends, and Draisaitl is committed for another eight seasons after this one, so nine in total," Johnston added.

So, McDavid's close friendship with Draisaitl is also a big factor in their prospects.

Connor McDavid is not dwelling on Contract talks

Connor McDavid is preparing for the upcoming season and not focusing on contract negotiations. He told reporters on Tuesday that his main goal is to be ready to perform, both personally and as a team.

"It's something that I'm not going to worry about or really deal with," McDavid said per Sportsnet, "It's a question that I'll answer once and that's I'm worried about this year. I'm worried about being ready for the season, both myself personally and the group. That's where my focus is at. It's not on anything else. That stuff takes care of itself. It's not something that I'm worried about."

McDavid knows the Oilers need a strong start this year, after last season's slow beginning, which led to the firing of head coach Jay Woodcroft. Since joining the Oilers in 2015, Connor McDavid has 335 goals and 647 assists in 645 games. He has won the Hart Trophy three times.