Edmonton Oilers GM Says Contract Talks With Connor McDavid Will Begin “Whenever They’re Ready,” Signaling Patience and Openness in Negotiations

Edmonton Oilers General Manager Jeff Jackson has made it clear that the organization is prepared to approach superstar captain Connor McDavid’s next contract discussions with patience, respect, and openness. Speaking during his recent media availability, Jackson addressed the looming question that has quietly hovered over the franchise ever since the Oilers’ season came to a heartbreaking conclusion in the Stanley Cup Final — what comes next for Connor McDavid?

For the Oilers and their fans, that question carries monumental weight. McDavid, arguably the most electrifying and dominant player in the NHL, has just two seasons remaining on his current eight-year, $100 million contract signed back in 2017. With unrestricted free agency on the horizon in the summer of 2026, the hockey world is already speculating about the future of the league’s most valuable player.

But according to Jackson, there’s no panic within the walls of Rogers Place. In fact, the Oilers’ top executive conveyed a sense of calm and mutual understanding between the franchise and its franchise cornerstone. “We’re going to have those conversations whenever they’re ready,” Jackson stated. “There’s a lot of respect there, and both sides know how important this is — not just for Connor, but for the organization, the city, and the fans.”

McDavid’s current contract remains one of the most significant deals in NHL history, both in terms of dollar value and its impact on the team. Since signing that agreement, McDavid has only solidified his status as the premier talent in the game, capturing multiple Art Ross Trophies, Hart Memorial Trophies, and leading the Oilers to sustained playoff success — culminating in the team’s first Stanley Cup Final appearance since 2006 this past season.

Yet, as much as the city of Edmonton basks in the glow of recent achievements, the inevitable questions surrounding McDavid’s long-term future are impossible to avoid. Hockey insiders have been quick to debate whether McDavid, a player whose transcendent skills have defined the modern NHL, would consider testing the free-agent waters or seek a new chapter elsewhere, especially given the allure of bigger markets or fresh challenges.

However, Jackson’s latest remarks suggest that neither side is operating with a sense of urgency — and that, in itself, could be a positive signal for Oilers fans hoping to see McDavid remain the face of the franchise for years to come. “We’re going to be patient with this,” Jackson emphasized. “Connor’s earned the right to take his time. He’s given everything to this organization. When he’s ready to have that discussion, we’ll be ready too.”

Patience seems to be the prevailing theme from both camps. Those close to McDavid’s camp have echoed similar sentiments in recent months, reiterating that while Edmonton holds a special place in McDavid’s heart, the captain’s primary focus has always been on winning — and after the Oilers’ deep playoff run, the belief is stronger than ever that the pieces are in place to contend for a championship.

For McDavid, whose legacy is already secure as one of the game’s generational talents, the next contract represents more than just financial security. It’s about aligning with an organization that shares his competitive vision, surrounding him with a roster capable of not just reaching the final but finishing the job.

From Jackson’s perspective, the Oilers have demonstrated that commitment. The team has invested heavily in bolstering its supporting cast, building around McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and a core group that includes key contributors such as Zach Hyman, Evan Bouchard, and Stuart Skinner.

Their efforts came agonizingly close to ultimate glory this season, with the Oilers falling just short in a grueling seven-game Stanley Cup Final. Yet, for all the heartbreak, the franchise’s trajectory remains upward, and the belief is palpable that Edmonton is on the cusp of something special.

That shared belief could play a crucial role when those contract conversations eventually materialize. While Jackson made clear there’s no deadline or immediate timetable, both he and McDavid understand the magnitude of the situation. McDavid will become eligible to sign an extension as early as July 1, 2025, a date that has already been circled on calendars across the NHL landscape.

Until then, speculation will persist — as will the questions from fans, analysts, and media. But inside Oilers headquarters, the approach remains grounded. “It’s about respect, communication, and doing what’s right for Connor and for this team,” Jackson said. “We know how much he means to this city, to our fans, and to hockey as a whole. There’s no pressure. When the time is right, we’ll have those talks.”

McDavid, for his part, has remained focused on hockey rather than contract chatter. Following the Stanley Cup Final, he reiterated his commitment to the team and his desire to bring a championship to Edmonton, sentiments that have resonated deeply with the Oilers faithful.

“I love playing here. The fans, the city, the organization — it means a lot to me,” McDavid shared during his end-of-season availability. “We’ve built something here, and I believe in this group. The only thing on my mind is winning.”

Still, the broader NHL community remains fixated on what McDavid’s next move will be. His future represents one of the most high-stakes storylines in hockey — a decision that could reshape not just the Oilers but the league as a whole.

For now, though, the message from Edmonton’s front office is one of unity, patience, and mutual respect. Jackson’s approach reflects an understanding of the delicate nature of such negotiations, especially with a player of McDavid’s caliber and influence.

It’s a strategy rooted in stability and transparency — two elements that could ultimately be pivotal in keeping McDavid in an Oilers jersey for the foreseeable future. With two seasons remaining on his contract, both parties have time to evaluate, reflect, and map out the next chapter.

Oilers fans can take comfort in the fact that, for now, the lines of communication remain open, and the organization is signaling its readiness to do what’s necessary to keep its generational star at the heart of their championship aspirations.

While contract talks may not be imminent, the groundwork for those discussions is being laid with care. In the unpredictable world of professional sports, patience often yields the best outcomes — and in Edmonton, the hope is that patience will lead to the ultimate reward: securing Connor McDavid’s future and, perhaps, the long-awaited Stanley Cup the city craves.