Oilers Insider Provides Timeline for When Connor McDavid’s Future Could Be Decided

"I'd say by August 28th, which is a Thursday, a month from today, I could foresee a scenario where extensions are done on Podkolzin, Walman, Ekholm, and McDavid," Stauffer said.

Stauffer also emphasized that both he and NHL insider Frank Seravalli have remained consistent on McDavid’s likely return to Edmonton by re-signing with the Oilers.

"Seravalli and myself both said, you know, 100% Connor would re-sign, all along," Stauffer said.

The Oilers insider hinted that the timing may be affected by forward Leon Draisaitl’s upcoming wedding, which could push negotiations further into August as both players are likely to prioritize personal off-ice events during the offseason.

"I could see some traction occurring after [the wedding]. A potential extension for [head coach] Kris Knoblauch as well," Stauffer said.

Connor McDavid Keeps His Options Open

Following Edmonton’s second straight loss in the Stanley Cup Final, McDavid offered no indication he was close to making a decision.

"I'm not in a rush to make any decision, so I don’t think there needs to be any timeline," McDavid said.

McDavid said he remains open to re-signing, provided the Oilers’ championship window stays intact.

"If I feel that there's a good window to win here over and over again, then signing is no problem," McDavid said. "Ultimately, still need to do what’s best for me and my family," McDavid said.

McDavid has led the Oilers to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals, but the team has fallen short both times. He will enter next season with 1,082 points in 712 games and coming off a 100-point season last year, appearing in just 67 regular-season games.