Connor McDavid's decision to stay with Oilers sparks a what-if debate
Photo credit: Edit from Daily Faceoff
Before the season started, Connor McDavid signed a two-year contract extension with the Oilers, which has now sparked a what-if debate by an NHL analyst.
After an 8-3 loss to the Dallas Stars on Tuesday, Connor McDavid admitted the Oilers' struggles were frustrating. The defeat dropped Edmonton to 10-10-5, and McDavid looked visibly frustrated in his post-game interview.
The Oilers have faced the same problems since McDavid joined the NHL in 2015: limited support beyond McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, and inconsistent goaltending.
What some NHL analysts are questioning
Considering these long-standing issues, some analysts are questioning why McDavid signed a two-year deal to stay in Edmonton.
McDavid's decision to stay loyal instead of testing free agency might become one of the biggest "what-ifs" in NHL history, according to NHL analyst Josh Cybulski.
"McDavid's choice to sign with Edmonton before even considering free agency might become one of the biggest 'what-ifs' in NHL history. However, McDavid opted for stability in a familiar market, with a team that has been competitive for most of his NHL career."
- Josh Cybulski
- Josh Cybulski
He opted for stability in a familiar city with a team that has been competitive for most of his career. The timing of his extension was unusual, as he could have become one of the first generational players in modern NHL history to test free agency at his peak.
By signing the two-year deal, McDavid delayed his free agency until age 31, missing a chance to spark a bidding war that could have shifted the NHL's balance of power and reset superstar salaries.
Why Connor McDavid chose a hometown discount
Instead, he chose the hometown discount, prioritizing loyalty and continuity over maximum leverage.
The deal gives the Oilers a short leash to build a championship team around him, but it also raises questions about whether these next two years will cement his legacy or leave fans wondering what might have been.
For now, McDavid is focused on winning games and helping the Oilers turn the season around. Loyalty wins the day, but the "what-if" story of McDavid and free agency will linger for NHL fans and analysts.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 28 | 112 ANSWERS Connor McDavid's decision to stay with Oilers sparks a what-if debate Did Connor McDavid do the right thing signing with the Oilers? | ||
| Yes | 65 | 58 % |
| No | 47 | 42 % |
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