Connor McDavid is almost unanimously recognized as not only the current best player in the NHL, but arguably the best player to ever play the game of hockey.
In this NHL marketplace undergoing a rising economy, McDavid could have easily commanded the most money in the league given his superstar status. But, he choose to sign a team friendly 2 year $12.5 million deal instead.
This shows Connor’s commitment to winning and that he prioritizes chasing the Stanley Cup versus making as much as he can on his paycheck.
What the McDavid contract means for Edmonton
To be fair, McDavid did not have much of a choice in the matter when it came to maxing out on a new deal. McDavid could have made more, but that would have come at the cost of precious salary cap space that his Edmonton Oilers squad is lacking.
Rather, McDavid decided to take a discount for the team, allowing them the space to be able to remain competitive in their ongoing chase for the Stanley Cup. Via insider Frank Seravalli, $15 million is the most McDavid could have made on this contract and even that would have been pushing it for the Oilers.
Of course, this lesser contract when it comes to riches has a kicker. That catch is the fact this will only be a short term 2 year deal upon conclusion of this season. Reports had suggested a shorter deal would be in the cards. This puts the pressure on Edmonton to go all the way during the stint of this McDavid contract.
If the Oilers fail to win it all, that could be the last we see of Connor in Edmonton considering his decision to not bind himself to Alberta in the long term. The Oilers will certainly be a team to watch closely for these next 3 years for this reason.
