DEAL ACCEPTED: Edmonton oilers centre Connor McDavid sign a 4-years contract with Edmonton oilers worth $112 million as their new…see more

In a blockbuster announcement that electrified the hockey world and reaffirmed Edmonton’s commitment to greatness, superstar centre Connor McDavid has officially signed a 4-year contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers worth $112 million the richest deal in franchise history. The new agreement, which will keep McDavid in an Oilers jersey through the 2029-30 NHL season, makes him the highest-paid player in league history on an annual basis.

Alongside the record-breaking financial commitment, the Oilers organization also confirmed that McDavid will serve as the **centerpiece of a reimagined leadership core**, reaffirming his position as captain and officially designating him as **the face of the franchise’s next era

The news came early Monday morning during a press conference at Rogers Place, where team officials, McDavid’s representatives, and an auditorium full of cheering fans gathered to witness what many called a “historic moment for Canadian hockey.”

“I’m honored, I’m grateful, and I’m all in,” McDavid told the crowd, standing at the podium in a crisp navy suit, flanked by Oilers general manager **Ken Holland** and team owner **Daryl Katz**. “This city, this team—it’s home. I want to win here, and I believe we’re closer than we’ve ever been.”

McDavid’s new deal averages **\$28 million per season**, eclipsing his previous eight-year, \$100 million deal signed in 2017. With this extension, McDavid not only secures his place as the highest-paid NHL player annually but also sends a bold signal to the rest of the league: he’s not leaving Edmonton anytime soon.

The contract includes **full no-movement protection**, performance bonuses tied to team playoff success, and leadership incentives aimed at mentoring the next generation of Oilers talent.

Holland called the deal a “testament to Connor’s belief in the city, the team, and the direction we’re headed.”

“We knew it wouldn’t be cheap, and it shouldn’t be,” Holland said. “Connor McDavid is the best hockey player on the planet. He’s earned every penny, and what’s more important—he’s earned our trust and respect.”

While McDavid has already worn the captain’s “C” since 2016—making him the youngest captain in NHL history at the time—this contract symbolizes something deeper: **a renewal of trust** between McDavid and the franchise, especially after several near-miss playoff runs and internal leadership changes over the past few seasons.

Following a heartbreaking second-round playoff exit last spring, questions began swirling in the media about whether McDavid might test free agency in 2026. Rumors of potential moves to major markets like New York or Los Angeles intensified in the off-season.

But behind the scenes, negotiations were quietly progressing. According to sources within the organization, the Oilers front office worked hand-in-hand with McDavid and his longtime agent **Jeff Jackson** to craft a deal that went beyond money.

“This isn’t just a hockey contract—it’s a partnership,” said Jackson. “Connor wanted a structure that allows the team to continue building around him. This deal gives the Oilers financial flexibility, while still honoring Connor’s value. It’s a win-win.”

### Fanbase Rejoices: “He’s Ours!”

Outside Rogers Place, jubilant fans gathered in what quickly turned into a celebration. Chants of “McDavid! McDavid!” echoed through the plaza as Oilers flags waved and children in #97 jerseys posed for selfies in front of the arena’s bronze Gretzky statue.

Social media exploded with praise and emotion. “He’s ours!” read a tweet from the official Oilers account, which garnered over 2 million views within an hour.

Local sports bars reported record morning traffic as fans gathered for impromptu viewing parties. At O’Byrne’s Irish Pub on Whyte Avenue, patrons clinked pints and belted out chants of “M-V-P!”

“This is better than Christmas,” said longtime fan **Greg Nolan**, 58, wearing a McDavid home jersey. “People said he might leave. They said Edmonton was too small. But look at this—he chose us. He stayed.”

### Team Reaction: “Let’s Win This Thing”

Inside the locker room, teammates responded with a mix of relief and renewed determination. Star forward **Leon Draisaitl**, whose own contract talks are expected to heat up later this year, praised McDavid’s commitment.

“It’s huge. It changes everything,” Draisaitl said. “He’s our leader. With him here long-term, we all feel like we’ve got a real shot at winning a Cup. It’s time to deliver.”

Goaltender **Stuart Skinner** echoed the sentiment: “Connor’s not just the best player—he sets the tone for all of us. Knowing he’s staying makes you want to skate harder, train longer, and play smarter.”

Head Coach **Kris Knoblauch** also weighed in, calling the extension “a stabilizing force” and confirming McDavid will be “more involved than ever” in tactical and locker room decisions moving forward.

### Eyes on the Stanley Cup

With McDavid’s future now secured, the Oilers front office has a clear mandate: **win a Stanley Cup**—and soon. Despite multiple deep playoff runs in recent seasons, Edmonton has failed to capture the elusive championship that has evaded them since 1990.

Now, with McDavid entering his prime and surrounded by a hungry roster of young stars and seasoned veterans, the expectations have never been higher.

“We’re not just aiming for the playoffs anymore,” said GM Ken Holland. “This is about building a dynasty. And with Connor locked in, that vision just became very real.”

### A Canadian Hero

Connor McDavid’s decision to remain in Edmonton carries special weight for Canadian hockey fans. In an era where superstars often migrate to U.S. markets for lifestyle or exposure, McDavid’s loyalty to a Canadian franchise is being hailed as a rare and powerful move.

Hockey Night in Canada commentator **Ron MacLean** put it best: “In an age of fleeting allegiance, McDavid choosing Edmonton is a throwback to the greats. It’s Gretzky-esque. It’s loyalty and leadership defined.”

Even Prime Minister **Justin Trudeau** offered congratulations in a statement posted to X: “Canada’s game just got a big win. Congratulations to Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers. Let’s bring the Cup back north!”