The Edmonton Oilers are staring down a massive summer of contract decisions after their playoff exit in Game 6.
Money’s tight – they’ve only got about $12 million to work with under the salary cap.
First up is star defenseman Evan Bouchard, who’s about to become a restricted free agent. The Oilers are planning to start those talks this week, according to insider David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period.
But that’s just the beginning. They’ll also need to figure out a new deal for their captain and face of the franchise, Connor McDavid, who can sign an extension starting July 1.
Both contracts are going to be eye-popping.
Bouchard’s been incredible for a 25-year-old defenseman. He’s racked up 238 points in 347 games, putting him sixth among all NHL defenders his age or younger. Only Rasmus Dahlin, who just signed for $88 million over eight years with Buffalo, has better numbers among recent signees.
Experts think Bouchard might land just under Dahlin’s $11 million per year, but with the salary cap expected to rise, it could be close.
Then there’s McDavid’s deal – and this is where things get really interesting.
He’s already making $12.5 million a year on his current contract, signed back in 2017. Since then, only three players have topped that: Nathan MacKinnon ($12.6M), Auston Matthews ($13.25M), and teammate Leon Draisaitl ($14M).
The numbers McDavid’s put up are just ridiculous: 826 points in 503 games during his current contract. That’s not just good – that’s generational talent territory.
While Draisaitl actually outscored him by six points this season, McDavid’s likely looking at something around $14.5 million per year – maybe even $15 million.
These aren’t just any contracts. McDavid and Bouchard were the Oilers’ most-used players at their positions last season, and both finished top-three in team scoring two years running.
The decisions will shape Edmonton’s future for years to come. They’ve got 13 players hitting free agency in 2026, including promising young goalie Stuart Skinner.
If both deals get done, McDavid and Bouchard will become the NHL’s most expensive forward-defender duo. But for a team that’s made back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals appearances, it might be worth every penny.
The Oilers are betting these contracts will help keep their championship window wide open – especially if they can find some bargains in net and among their role players.
