"Worried about this year": Connor McDavid avoids commenting on renegotiation with Oilers, stays focused on upcoming season
Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid missed the chance to lift the Stanley Cup last season by a small margin. But reaching the Stanley Cup Finals is not an easy task.
The Oilers will have to be consistent with their wins in the regular season and then qualify for all three rounds in the playoffs to repeat that feat. It will be daunting to do it all over again, but McDavid is known for his commitment.
This is the main reason McDavid is not talking about his contract renegotiation yet. His contract can be renewed next July, but he prefers to focus on the upcoming season.
“It’s something that I’m not going to deal with," McDavid said (via Edmonton Journal). "It’s a question I’ll answer once: I’m worried about this year and 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 I’m worried about.”
His teammate Leon Draisaitl recently signed an eight-year extension with the team. McDavid said he’s happy for Draisaitl and that it’s good news for the team and fans.
“It’s great, I’m really happy for him and his family," McDavid said. "It’s well-deserved. He deserves every penny. I’m happy he’s here for a really long time... It’s exciting for him, for the organization and fans. It’s exciting for everybody."
McDavid also spoke about the changes in the Oilers' organization. He mentioned how well the team treats its players and how winning has made Edmonton an attractive place for other players.
For now, Connor McDavid wants to stay focused on playing hockey and helping the team this season.
Connor McDavid will 'never get over' Stanley Cup finals loss
Connor McDavid has learned from his Stanley Cup finals run. Now, he has experience and is determined to lead the Oilers to another deep playoff run.
Reflecting on their Stanley Cup Finals loss, McDavid admitted he’ll never fully get over it but knows time moves on.
"It's something that you'll never really get over... ," McDavid said, during training camp in Vail, Colorado. "But ultimately, time moves on, and you’ve got to get ready to go again.”
McDavid has adjusted his summer training this year. He did this because last season, the Oilers had a tough start due to injuries. He now has strong support from Leon Draisaitl, who signed a $112 million contract.
Connor McDavid is also close to reaching 1,000 career points, needing just 18 more. Last season, he had 132 points, with 32 goals and 100 assists.
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