The Edmonton Oilers are still looking for answers after another disappointing playoff exit. However, a respected voice around the team believes the franchise’s biggest question has a positive answer.

During a recent appearance on Fan590 in Toronto, Oilers radio analyst Bob Stauffer said he believes Connor McDavid will stay in Edmonton for the long term.

Bleed Oil Blue later shared the comments on X, bringing even more attention to them.

“I don't think there's anybody more committed to Edmonton than Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl,” Stauffer said. “I expect the next contract to be a seven year extension.”

For Oilers fans, the comments may be the most positive news going into the offseason. Connor McDavid is the face of the franchise and one of the NHL’s top players. 

This season, he recorded 138 points, including 48 goals, in 82 regular-season games. The center also added six points in six playoff games, even though Edmonton was eliminated early.

Bob Stauffer also talked about Leon Draisaitl, who remains a crucial part of the Oilers. The forward finished the regular season with 35 goals and 97 points in 65 games. He then added 10 points, including three goals, in six playoff games.

McDavid signed a two-year, $25 million contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers in October 2025. The deal starts in the 2026-27 season and pays him $12.5 million per year.

If he stays in Edmonton, it would be a huge win for the Edmonton Oilers.

The Future of Connor McDavid Becomes Part of Wider Oilers Discussion

With the Oilers having fired head coach Kris Knoblauch, Stauffer's comments offer hope as the franchise moves in a new direction.

The team's coaching search has attracted plenty of attention, especially with reports linking former Stanley Cup-winning coach Mike Babcock to the open position.

Former Oilers captain and executive Craig MacTavish also recently shared his thoughts on the team's leadership group. Speaking on Oilers Now with Stauffer, MacTavish criticized public comments made by star players about coaching decisions.

“I didn’t like any of that stuff. I didn’t think it was appropriate to do it,” MacTavish said. “I think the dressing room is… sanctity. And these guys have tremendous influence.”

While people may disagree about coaching decisions, Bob Stauffer’s prediction brings the focus back to what could matter most for Edmonton’s future.

A long-term commitment from Connor McDavid would give the Edmonton Oilers a foundation that very few teams can match and keep them in Stanley Cup contention for many years.

Would seven more years of Connor McDavid make the Edmonton Oilers the most dangerous team in the NHL? Comment your opinion below. 

Read more at the NHL Fan Central.

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Sijo Paul