Oilers general manager Stan Bowman is certain that Connor McDavid will sign an extension, saying, “We’re going to make it happen.”

In the ever-evolving world of the National Hockey League (NHL), few things are as exciting and as important to the future of a team as the potential for retaining a superstar player. And in the case of the Edmonton Oilers, the player in question is none other than Connor McDavid, widely considered the best hockey player on the planet. His remarkable skill set, unmatched speed, and leadership have made him not only the face of the Oilers but the face of the league itself.

As the NHL’s landscape shifts with new contracts, salary caps, and evolving team dynamics, the future of the league’s marquee players—especially someone of McDavid’s caliber—becomes a topic of significant discussion. For the Oilers, McDavid’s contract situation is one of the most pressing issues for the team and its fan base. As McDavid’s current contract edges toward its expiration in 2026, many are watching closely to see whether the Oilers will be able to retain their star player for the long term.

In a recent statement that provided both reassurance and optimism to Oilers fans, General Manager Stan Bowman has made it clear that he is fully committed to securing an extension for McDavid. With a level of confidence that suggests no hesitation in his plans for the future, Bowman stated, “We’re going to make it happen.” These words not only reflect the Oilers’ desire to keep McDavid in Edmonton but also signal the organization’s dedication to building a championship-contending team around its superstar.

In this article, we take a closer look at the implications of Bowman’s remarks, what it would mean for the Oilers to lock up McDavid long-term, and how the franchise might navigate the financial and logistical complexities that come with such an endeavor. We also explore McDavid’s importance to the Oilers and the broader NHL, and consider the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead as the Oilers aim to keep their captain in the fold.

Connor McDavid: The Heart and Soul of the Edmonton Oilers

Before delving into the specifics of contract negotiations, it’s essential to understand the magnitude of what retaining Connor McDavid would mean for the Oilers, both on and off the ice. McDavid, who was drafted by the Oilers as the first overall pick in the 2015 NHL Draft, has been a game-changer for the team since day one. His combination of speed, skill, and hockey IQ is unparalleled, and he has consistently been the league’s most electrifying player.

McDavid has already rewritten record books, winning multiple Hart Memorial Trophies (awarded to the league’s MVP) and setting new benchmarks for points in a season. He is the offensive engine for the Oilers, driving their power play, breaking through opposing defenses with his dazzling skating, and creating plays that leave fans and analysts in awe. His influence extends beyond just his point totals—his leadership on and off the ice, and his ability to elevate those around him, have made him an indispensable part of the Oilers’ franchise.

For a team like Edmonton, McDavid represents more than just a player—he is the cornerstone upon which the team hopes to build its future success. The Oilers’ rebuild, which began years ago, reached a turning point with McDavid’s arrival. His presence has made Edmonton a more attractive destination for free agents and has significantly boosted the team’s profile within the league.

However, McDavid’s current contract is set to expire in 2026, which leaves the Oilers with a critical decision on whether to extend the contract before that time comes. His potential extension is vital not just for the Oilers’ on-ice performance, but also for their future plans, both from a financial and marketing perspective.

Stan Bowman’s Confidence in McDavid’s Extension

When Stan Bowman, the Oilers’ General Manager, recently addressed the media regarding McDavid’s future, he made a clear statement: “We’re going to make it happen.” This sentiment came as a welcome sign for fans, as the uncertainty surrounding McDavid’s contract situation has been a source of speculation ever since he signed his current eight-year, $100 million contract in 2017.

Bowman’s confidence likely stems from his understanding of McDavid’s value to the team and the Oilers’ determination to keep him in Edmonton. Not only does McDavid represent the team’s most important player, but his extended contract will also shape the direction of the franchise for years to come. Whether or not the Oilers can secure an extension with McDavid will depend on multiple factors, including the structure of the deal, salary cap considerations, and McDavid’s personal aspirations.

One key aspect of Bowman’s statement is his recognition of the importance of retaining McDavid not just for his exceptional talent, but for his ability to transform the franchise. McDavid is the type of player who can be a game-changer in every sense of the word. Having him under contract for the long term is a priority for the Oilers, and Bowman is clearly putting in the effort to make that happen.

Financial Considerations: Navigating the Salary Cap

Of course, as with any contract extension for a player of McDavid’s stature, there are financial hurdles to overcome. McDavid is one of the highest-paid players in the NHL, and any extension is likely to keep him in that elite pay bracket. Currently, his cap hit is $12.5 million, making up a significant portion of the Oilers’ total salary cap.

The question of how to structure McDavid’s extension within the confines of the NHL salary cap is a complex one. The Oilers, like all NHL teams, must manage their financial resources carefully. The cap, which is set each season based on league revenue, limits the total amount teams can spend on player salaries. While the salary cap has increased over the years, it remains a constraint on teams that wish to retain top-tier talent while also building a competitive roster.

The challenge for Bowman and the Oilers’ front office will be to structure McDavid’s extension in a way that allows them to build a well-rounded team around him. McDavid’s extension would likely be the largest contract in Oilers history, and Bowman will need to balance the cap implications with the need to build a team capable of contending for championships.

In addition to McDavid, the Oilers have other key players they will need to account for in future contract negotiations. Leon Draisaitl, another superstar and McDavid’s longtime linemate, is also a cornerstone of the team’s success. The Oilers have made significant strides in recent seasons, but they still need to improve their depth and build a roster that can support McDavid and Draisaitl on their championship quest.

One approach that could be considered is front-loading McDavid’s contract extension, which would allocate more of the salary to the early years of the deal, thus giving the team more financial flexibility in the later years of the contract. Such a move would allow the Oilers to remain competitive over the long haul while ensuring that McDavid remains at the forefront of their roster.

McDavid’s Aspirations and Edmonton’s Pitch

While the financial aspect is crucial, McDavid’s decision will also come down to his personal aspirations. The 26-year-old center has already accomplished so much in his career, and at this stage, he will likely be focused on winning championships. He has expressed his desire to bring a Stanley Cup to Edmonton, and this goal will undoubtedly be a key factor in his decision to sign an extension.

For McDavid, the Oilers must not only offer him a competitive contract but also show that they are capable of building a championship-caliber team around him. In recent seasons, the team has made progress, particularly with the acquisition of players like Evander Kane and the continued development of young talents like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Evan Bouchard, and Stuart Skinner. However, McDavid will want to see more from the team, including a commitment to improving the defense and goaltending.

The Oilers’ front office, including Bowman, will need to reassure McDavid that the team is heading in the right direction and that his best chance to win a Cup is in Edmonton. This means building a team that not only has star power but also depth and balance. McDavid has shown he can carry a team offensively, but in order to win the ultimate prize, the Oilers will need to provide him with a roster that can excel in all areas.

McDavid’s Legacy and the Future of the Oilers

In many ways, the decision surrounding McDavid’s contract extension is about more than just the present. It’s about securing the legacy of the Edmonton Oilers as a perennial contender and ensuring that McDavid’s legacy as one of the greatest players in hockey history is tied to the success of the franchise.

If Bowman and the Oilers can lock down McDavid for the long term, it will give the franchise stability and a clear sense of direction. McDavid’s commitment to Edmonton will serve as a signal to fans and the hockey world that the Oilers are serious about competing for championships. And in turn, the team will have the foundation to build around McDavid for years to come.

As we look to the future, the road to an extension for Connor McDavid is not without its hurdles, but with Stan Bowman’s confidence, it’s clear that the Oilers will stop at nothing to ensure that McDavid remains in Edmonton. For the Oilers, making this deal happen is more than just a business decision—it’s about securing the future of the franchise and continuing to build a legacy of success around one of the greatest players to ever play the game.