Connor McDavid is heading into the final year of the eight-year, $100 million deal he signed with the Edmonton Oilers back in 2017. He’s made it clear that chasing a Stanley Cup is still his top priority, but he hasn’t shut the door on other possibilities when it comes to his future.
That mix of focus and uncertainty has fans and analysts wondering if he’ll lock in with Edmonton or test the waters when free agency gets closer.
How Will Connor McDavid’s Decision Shape Edmonton’s Entire Roster?
McDavid’s mix of focus, coupled with uncertainty, has fans and analysts wondering if he’ll lock in with Edmonton or test the waters when free agency gets closer.
The impact stretches beyond just McDavid’s personal decision. Executives and agents around the league are waiting to see if his eventual deal will reset the market for superstar salaries.
That uncertainty has created ripple effects inside Edmonton’s own locker room. Defenseman Jake Walman, who was acquired at last season’s trade deadline and quickly slotted into a steady second-pair role, is heading into the final year of a three-year, $10.2 million deal.
His representatives have already met with team officials, but insiders say progress has stalled until McDavid’s future is settled.
Jake Walman’s agent, Wade Arnott, was in EDM yesterday to speak with the Oilers on an extension.
We suspect that no contract gets done before the McDavid extension is announced. But things can change.— Mark Spector🇨🇦🇺🇦 (@SportsnetSpec) September 13, 2025
Analyst Bob Stauffer has floated possible figures, perhaps six years at $6 million annually, or even an eight-year pact, depending on the next CBA. Still, for now, those are just hypotheticals. Without clarity on the captain’s contract, the Oilers are unwilling to commit big dollars elsewhere.
It’s a similar situation for forward Vasily Podkolzin. The 24-year-old has carved out a role next to Leon Draisaitl and is in line for a raise. A three-year extension has been suggested, but like Walman, Podkolzin will likely need to wait until Edmonton knows exactly what McDavid’s deal looks like.
Why Are the Oilers Playing This Waiting Game?
The approach is deliberate as everything begins with McDavid. Prioritizing his extension allows the Oilers to shape their financial structure around their franchise cornerstone.
The downside is clear too, as players waiting on deals are left in limbo, with the risk that frustration seeps into the dressing room as the season unfolds.
Still, the organization knows there is no bigger priority. Locking in McDavid for the long term is essential to both competitiveness and stability. Once that piece is secured, Edmonton is expected to move quickly to finalize agreements with its other key contributors.
Until then, the Oilers are playing a waiting game. Fans are eager for a resolution, knowing that McDavid’s decision could shape not only the upcoming season but the team’s championship window for years to come.
Everything else, like roster depth, supporting contracts, and even long-term planning, hinges on what their captain chooses to do next.
