“We’ll be patient”: Stan Bowman on Connor McDavid’s contract decision and Edmonton Oilers’ approach

The Edmonton Oilers are set to open training camp next week with Connor McDavid still unsigned beyond the 2025–26 season. However, general manager Stan Bowman insists the team will give the superstar forward the time and space he needs to make a decision, emphasizing patience as the key approach.

McDavid’s future remains one of the NHL’s most closely watched stories, drawing attention from fans and media alike.

Stan Bowman emphasizes patience in Connor McDavid’s contract process and Edmonton Oilers’ strategy

Speaking on TSN’s Overdrive, Bowman highlighted the unique nature of McDavid’s situation and the importance of supporting his process. “Well, I think, you know, Connor’s been pretty open about his thoughts, and I don’t want to speak for him, but I think there’s really no secrets or there’s not any more to the story other than he’s just taking his time, and we respect that, we understand,” Bowman said. “He’s obviously the best player in the game, and we love having him here, and he’s our captain and our leader and we’re excited about that.”Bowman added, “So, we’ll be patient, but he knows that we love having him here and we want him to remain in Edmonton and that’s kind of the process that we’re going through right now.” His comments underline the Oilers’ focus on maintaining stability and avoiding external pressures during McDavid’s decision-making period.

Connor McDavid’s perspective and Edmonton Oilers’ team outlook, contract plans, and NHL future

McDavid, entering the final year of his eight-year, $100 million contract, has confirmed he is taking his time and evaluating all options. “All options are on the table, and that would mean length of term, short term, long term, no term,” McDavid said, noting that winning and team readiness for championship contention matter more than money.Bowman reinforced the need for trust, stating, “It’s just really trying to maintain patience. That’s the hard thing for the outside world to do. But for us, that’s fine. He’s always been a man of his word to me. I trust him. He’s going through his own process.” The Oilers’ strategy remains clear: prioritize McDavid’s comfort and focus while preparing for a competitive season ahead. Fans can expect McDavid to play a leading role in Edmonton’s bid for a Stanley Cup, and the team is committed to building around its captain for long-term success.Also Read: Scott Morrow aims to prove himself at New York Rangers rookie camp after K’Andre Miller trade