Who’s Winning and Losing from Connor McDavid’s Contract: Why the Oilers Score Big While the Leafs Miss Their Chance

The deal is official: Connor McDavid is staying with the Edmonton Oilers. In a surprising move, he signed a short two-year extension worth $12.5 million annually. This is much less than the $17 million a year that Kirill Kaprizov just secured with the Minnesota Wild. Remarkably, McDavid’s new contract carries the same average annual value as his previous one from 2017.

This extension will send shockwaves through the NHL. McDavid chose to stay and took a big hometown discount, which will have consequences for both teams and players around the league. Let’s explore the impact.

### Winners: The Edmonton Oilers

No doubt, Oilers CEO Jeff Jackson is thrilled with this outcome. McDavid could have demanded a record deal worth $19.1 million per year, but instead, he saved the Oilers $6.6 million against the salary cap for the next two seasons. This extra cap space gives them the chance to add another strong player, keeping their championship hopes alive. With teams like the Florida Panthers struggling with injuries, the Oilers remain a top contender.

### Losers: Teams Eyeing McDavid

If McDavid had entered free agency in 2026, every NHL team would have lined up to make their pitch. Many of these teams lack top-notch centers and desperately need superstars. This decision effectively removes a major player from the list of potential free agents, putting those teams at a disadvantage. Competing against a player of his caliber at a below-market salary adds even more pressure.

### Winner: Connor McDavid

Some might say McDavid is losing out on money, but we see it differently. By taking less, he earns goodwill from fans and gives the Oilers crucial cap space to work with. For McDavid, 28, this could pay off later. The NHL cap is growing, and in 2028, he could still command a long-term deal worth close to $25 million annually, possibly earning him an additional $150 million.

### Losers: The Minnesota Wild

While the Wild secured their own star, Kaprizov’s hefty contract may not be as beneficial now that McDavid’s contract sets a different tone. If teams see Draisaitl’s $14 million as the new ceiling, Kaprizov’s deal could make it harder for the Wild to pay future stars.

### Winner: Leon Draisaitl

Draisaitl, McDavid’s teammate and close friend, benefits from this extension. Had McDavid left, he would have been stuck on a weaker roster. With both players now locked in, the Oilers will continue to be a powerhouse in the coming seasons.

### Losers: Jack Eichel and Other Stars

With McDavid signing a more modest deal, players like Eichel and Kyle Connor might find it harder to negotiate for higher salaries. This environment could pressure them to consider taking less, despite their own market value.

### Winner: The NHL’s Middle Class

If superstar players take less, it opens up more funds for the league’s middle-tier players. Throughout history, the NHL’s top players often earned less than their worth, allowing second-line players to secure bigger contracts. After McDavid’s deal, other teams might follow suit, reallocating those funds.

### Losers: The Toronto Maple Leafs

Toronto fans had high hopes of landing McDavid, especially since he grew up nearby. With the focus on bringing him home, the Leafs are left scrambling to find new strategies for the future. They still have cap room, but missing out on McDavid is a significant blow.

### Losers: Free Agency in 2026

With big names like McDavid and Kaprizov off the market, next year’s free agency may not be exciting. Players like Panarin, who will be nearing the end of their careers, are unlikely to generate as much interest.

### Winner: Free Agency in 2028

While teams mourn missing McDavid now, they may find new hope in 2028. If he wins a Stanley Cup in Edmonton and seeks a fresh start, his next free agency could be the most anticipated in NHL history. Teams will be ready to make their best offers for one of the greatest players in the league.

In conclusion, McDavid’s decision has reshaped the landscape of the NHL. It not only affects the Oilers but also sends ripples through teams and players all around the league. As the cap changes and new opportunities arise, the fallout from this move will be felt for years to come.



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Edmonton Oilers, NHL