Edmonton Oilers

Insider Reveals Stance NHLPA Took on the McDavid Deal with Oilers

The NHLPA sees little risk from Connor McDavid’s record-setting two-year contract, viewing it as a unique deal for a generational talent.

by
NHL Trade Talk
October 27, 2025

Connor McDavid’s recent contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers has drawn headlines for its team-friendly structure, but sources indicate the NHL Players’ Association isn’t raising any red flags. According to Chris Johnston of The Athletic, the NHLPA isn’t looking at the extension as one that will negatively impact any other free agents.

The two-year, $25 million deal — the largest average annual value ever handed to a player on a short-term contract — has been widely regarded as a win-win for both McDavid and the Oilers. He’s not gotten off to the best start personally this season, but there’s no doubt McDavid remains one of, if not the best players in the NHL.

From the NHLPA perspective, McDavid’s situation is unique. As arguably the best player in the world, his accomplishments and impact on the ice are essentially unmatched. That singular status makes comparisons with other players difficult, and the union sees no reason to challenge the agreement.

Analysts note that while some teams might attempt to nudge future elite players toward similarly team-friendly terms, the NHLPA will likely protect its members’ earning potential. “Sure, teams may ask other star players to take less, but that’s nothing new,” said Johnston. “McDavid’s deal is unique, and it’s recognized as such across the board.”

For McDavid, the contract also makes sense on a personal level. Coming off consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances and facing questions about Edmonton’s competitive window, the two-year deal gives him flexibility while still earning a decent amount of money. As he said when he spoke to the media following the agreement, “$12.5 million’s not nothing.”

Don’t Expect the NHLPA To Get Involved At All In McDavid’s Decisions

In short, the NHLPA sees no fallout from the deal. McDavid’s unprecedented status and the contract reflect the reality of his and the Oilers’ unique situation. While future star negotiations may occasionally reference the extension, sources suggest the union won’t have a comment on McDavid’s deal.

There was talk that the NHLPA might have been pressuring the superstar, but it appears that rumor is inaccurate.

Next: Veteran Oilers Defenceman Showing Uncharacteristic Early-Season Woes