Articles / Will Oilers consider dealing McDavid if he doesn't re-sign by deadline?

Will Oilers consider dealing McDavid if he doesn't re-sign by deadline?

S
Sportsnet
Sep 22, 2025 3:56 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by Sportsnet. Read the full original article here →

The ongoing uncertainty surrounding Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers has prompted discussions about the team's future direction. Should McDavid not re-sign by the NHL trade deadline, speculation arises around the possibility of the Oilers considering a trade to maximize value. As one of the league's premier talents, the implications of losing McDavid could be monumental, not just for the Oilers but for the entire NHL landscape.

Trade talks involving a player of McDavid’s caliber carry significant weight. His offensive skills and leadership make him an invaluable asset, and teams would likely offer substantial returns for a chance to acquire him. While the focus remains on whether McDavid will commit to the Oilers long-term, fans and analysts alike are eager to gauge how the organization would respond to such a crucial juncture in their history.

The situation is compounded by the Oilers' playoff aspirations. If a deal were deemed necessary, it could ignite a rebuilding phase or even lead to bold moves to improve the current roster. Ultimately, the organization faces a critical decision, balancing the risks of trading such a star against the potential rewards of keeping McDavid in Edmonton. The coming months will be pivotal in determining the franchise's direction as they navigate this high-stakes scenario.

Players Mentioned