Edmonton Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman acknowledges that the negotiation timeline for superstar Connor McDavid`s potential contract extension will be driven by the player himself.
The Oilers are eligible to sign McDavid to an extension from July 1. He has one year remaining on his current contract before potentially becoming an unrestricted free agent next summer.
Bowman emphasized that securing McDavid is the team`s utmost priority but highlighted the importance of respecting the timing preferred by the three-time Hart Trophy recipient.
“Certainly, we are eager to meet with him whenever he is ready, while also recognizing that he has just endured a very difficult conclusion to the season,” Bowman stated during his media availability on Friday. “In terms of timing, Connor will steer that process. Without question, he is a fundamental player for our organization, not only because of his on-ice performance but also his leadership.”
“I`ve had the opportunity to work alongside him this year, and I`ve been profoundly impressed by aspects you might not typically witness, such as his quality as a teammate and his immense value to our group. We will initiate discussions when he feels prepared.”