An absurd claim made by an analyst could sink Edmonton Oilers
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As Connor McDavid approaches the final years of his contract with the Edmonton Oilers, some speculation about his next deal are being brought up.
One big theory from Ken Campbell of The Hockey News suggests McDavid could demand $20 million per season, but this claim doesn't align with McDavid's own words or his established priorities.
With the salary cap rising over $100 million, McDavid could command $20 million, or even a little more, when his deal expires after the 2025-26 season.
- Ken Campbell
- Ken Campbell
With the NHL salary cap expected to rise to $104 million by the time McDavid's extension kicks in after the 2025-26 season, the maximum a player could earn annually would be $20.8 million.
Ken Campbell say that Connor Mcdavid may aim for that figure which will mean that he will not give any "hometown discount" like he previously gave to Edmonton.
But McDavid himself has dismissed this idea and said it in a rare interview earlier this season.
"I feel like I set the market a long time ago. That held for a long time. The cap was pretty stagnant there for a while My priority is to win. My priority is to take care of my family. Those are the two things that I worry about."
- Connor McDavid
- Connor McDavid
This makes it clear: while McDavid isn't necessarily taking a discount, he's not chasing the maximum salary either.
Sportsnet projects McDavid's next contract will account for 16-17% of the salary cap which will be an increase from 15.72% on his current deal.
This would place his annual salary between $16.64 million and $17.68 million which is a substantial raise but far from the $20 million speculation.
McDavid's priority is team success and is demanding a maximum salary, which could cut Edmonton's ability to build a competitive roster around him.
Given his focus on winning and family, it's unlikely he'll pursue the $20.8 million figure and they expect McDavid's next contract to reflect both his value and his commitment to building a championship team in Edmonton.
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