NHL Trade Rumor: Connor McDavid’s loyalty tested as he reportedly chooses between Oilers loyalty and free agency freedom | NHL News
Connor McDavid isn’t going anywhere—at least not anytime soon. Despite a wave of swirling rumors suggesting that the Edmonton Oilers captain could explore free agency or leave for a better shot at the Stanley Cup, trusted NHL insider Elliotte Friedman has all but shut the door on that speculation.
Connor McDavid finally decides his NHL future—will Edmonton celebrate or crumble?
According to Friedman, a new contract extension is very likely in the works for McDavid, which would secure the franchise star well beyond his current deal that runs through the 2025-26 season. “I think I’ve been around long enough to know when there’s fear of losing someone. I don’t feel that here. I just don’t. We’ll see where this goes during the summer. This is not one I’m worried about. I’m not. I think he extends,” Friedman said, clearly confident in Edmonton’s hold on their generational talent.The Oilers have faced back-to-back heartbreaks in their quest for a Stanley Cup, most recently falling short against the Florida Panthers in the Final. These high-profile losses have raised serious questions about whether the team can truly build a championship core around McDavid. Yet, despite the setbacks, the loyalty between the player and the organization seems stronger than ever.While McDavid is not a free agent—his contract runs for two more seasons—conversations about his long-term future have gained traction due to Edmonton’s repeated playoff struggles. The idea of him testing free agency sparked fan debates and media narratives, but none of that seems to match the reality unfolding behind the scenes.The extension won’t come without its complexities, though. Negotiating what could be the most lucrative contract in NHL history naturally involves time and precision. “I just don’t know what the term of that is going to be. I think there’ll be no fight at all with McDavid. What do you want? Fine. What are we going to pay you? We’ll do it. And again, I think he’s going to sign. I just don’t know the term. I’m not honestly,” Friedman explained.As it stands, fans in Edmonton can breathe easier. Their superstar, the face of the franchise and arguably the best player in the world, appears fully committed to chasing a title in an Oilers jersey.Also Read: Joe Pavelski trades ice for greens and dominates American Century celebrity golf event in surprise victory
