NHL analyst blasted over Connor McDavid is ‘gone’ prediction

The timing matters because McDavid’s two-year extension beginning in 2026-27 has intensified pressure on Edmonton management. The short-term structure creates what many around the league already view as a championship deadline.

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Oilers facing pressure to maximize Connor McDavid window

Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) during a game at Rogers Place

From a hockey standpoint, the concern is not completely unreasonable. Edmonton’s roster issues remain obvious despite McDavid producing another dominant season with 48 goals and 138 points.

The Oilers finished second in the Pacific Division but still allowed 269 goals during the regular season. Their first-round playoff exit against the Anaheim Ducks exposed the same flaws critics have discussed for years – inconsistent defensive structure, unreliable depth scoring, and heavy dependence on McDavid and Draisaitl carrying the offense.

McDavid’s six-point series against Anaheim would be considered strong for most stars. For him, it became another example of opponents successfully forcing the puck away from Edmonton’s elite forwards and exposing weak secondary support. Although that happened because he was playing injured.

Still, Warrener’s claim that McDavid is “gone no matter what” feels speculative more than sourced. McDavid has consistently praised Edmonton publicly and accepted contracts that gave management salary-cap flexibility. Players chasing exits rarely sacrifice earning power to help build deeper rosters.

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The bigger issue for Edmonton is simpler. The Oilers no longer have room for excuses. McDavid is entering the prime championship years of his career, and the organization must finally prove it can build a complete contender around the best player in hockey.