Oilers GM Stan Bowman Hints at Timeline for Connor McDavid Extension

After spending his entire career with the Edmonton Oilers thus far, and while he's a free agent in the summer of 2026, many, including his partner have hinted that his next deal will still be with the Oilers as he looks to chase down his ultimate goal of a Stanley Cup.

While there have been very limited conversations thus far in the 2025 summer, things haven't moved quickly with McDavid and the Oilers, and now, General Manager Stan Bowman has addressed the situation, revealing a timeline for a potential deal.

McDavid has been notably busy this off-season with weddings and other ways to get away from the game of hockey, but if Bowman's comments are anything to go by, it appears as though the conversations aren't expected to take too long.

Last season, we saw Leon Draisaitl's extension get officially announced just before the pre-season, and in this situation, things are likely to play out the same as McDavid returns to Edmonton for the season.

Ultimately, the belief is still that McDavid is likely to sign a short-term deal in the 3-4 year range to stay with the Oilers, and in the process he could become the highest paid player in the National Hockey League, so while some fans have become worried that the situation hasn't moved fast enough, things are likely to get done before the season.