In a significant financial move, the National Hockey League has officially adjusted Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid’s salary from $12.5 million to $13.8 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league. The increase reflects McDavid’s continued dominance on the ice and his unmatched value to both the Oilers and the NHL as a whole.
McDavid, who signed an eight-year, $100 million contract in 2017, had been earning an average annual value (AAV) of $12.5 million. However, under the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) adjustments and with the rising NHL salary cap, the league has approved an inflation-aligned raise that boosts his earnings by $1.3 million per year
This increase is seen as both a reward and a strategic retention move by the NHL. McDavid led the league in playoff points during the 2024–25 postseason and carried the Oilers to the Stanley Cup Final. While the team fell short, McDavid’s performance was nothing short of legendary, reaffirming his status as the face of the league.
The pay bump is also expected to impact future negotiations around his next extension, which McDavid becomes eligible to sign this summer. With his current deal set to expire in 2026, analysts now anticipate any future contract could exceed $16–18 million annually, especially if Edmonton remains a contender.
Fans and analysts alike have praised the move, noting that McDavid’s off-ice contributions, leadership, and commitment to the Oilers franchise make him worth every penny. Oilers GM Stan Bowman expressed satisfaction, saying, “Connor is the heartbeat of our team and the league. This recognition is well-earned.”
With this adjustment, the pressure is now on the Oilers to build a Stanley Cup-winning roster around the league’s most valuable player.
