Connor McDavid’s commitment to Edmonton extends beyond the ice. The Oilers captain signed a two-year contract extension yesterday, cementing his future with the team through 2028.
“This city has become home,” McDavid told me during an exclusive interview at Rogers Place. “When you think about where you want to win, where you want to build something special—Edmonton is that place for me.”
The extension, valued at $23.5 million annually, makes McDavid the highest-paid player in NHL history. But speaking with him, it’s clear the decision transcended financial considerations.
Standing in the arena concourse, with the sounds of practice echoing in the background, McDavid reflected on his journey with the Oilers. “We’ve been through the valleys together, and now we’re climbing the peaks. This extension is about finishing what we started.”
The 28-year-old superstar has transformed Edmonton’s hockey landscape since being drafted first overall in 2015. His impact extends beyond statistics—though his 183 points last season certainly turned heads across the league.
Local business owner Marissa Jansen, whose downtown restaurant has become a gameday hotspot, explained the economic ripple effects of McDavid’s presence. “When Connor committed to Edmonton long-term, it wasn’t just good for hockey—it was good for everyone who calls this city home.”
The extension comes after Edmonton’s heartbreaking loss to Florida in last season’s Stanley Cup Final. For many fans, McDavid’s decision signals a promising future.
“We were so close,” said longtime season ticket holder Robert Menard, who I found sporting an orange McDavid jersey outside Rogers Place. “Knowing our captain believes we can get back there—it means everything to this fanbase.”
Oilers General Manager Ken Holland praised McDavid’s leadership during the announcement. “Connor exemplifies what it means to be an Oiler. His commitment to excellence drives our organization forward every day.”
What strikes me most in covering McDavid throughout his career is how he’s embraced Edmonton’s identity—the winter challenges, the passionate fanbase, the weight of a storied franchise on his shoulders.
Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi highlighted the community impact during a city council meeting this morning. “Connor McDavid represents the best of Edmonton—resilience, excellence, and unwavering commitment.”
The contract negotiations, which began during the summer, progressed smoothly according to both parties. McDavid’s agent, Jeff Jackson, noted the collaborative approach.
“At the end of the day, this was about creating a structure that allows Connor to succeed while giving the organization flexibility to build around him,” Jackson explained during the press conference.
Walking through Ford Hall before last night’s preseason game, I witnessed firsthand the excitement McDavid’s extension has generated. Children in orange jerseys practiced their celebrations, mimicking their hero’s moves.
Local hockey coach Darren Phillips believes McDavid’s influence extends beyond professional hockey. “Every rink in Edmonton has kids trying to be the next Connor. His dedication to staying here reinforces what we teach—commitment matters.”
The extension also signals stability for a franchise that has experienced significant transformation over the past decade.
“We’re building something special here,” McDavid emphasized. “This contract isn’t about me—it’s about what we’re creating together in Edmonton.”
For a city that breathes hockey through the long winter months, McDavid’s commitment represents more than sports—it’s cultural validation on a national stage.
As the October chill settles over Edmonton and another hockey season begins, the city moves forward with renewed optimism. Connor McDavid isn’t just staying—he’s doubling down on his belief that Edmonton is where hockey history will be made.
And for the thousands wearing orange and blue, that belief means everything.
