NHL analyst warns Connor McDavid could leave Oilers to chase Stanley Cup

Connor McDavid ’s future with the Edmonton Oilers has come under fresh scrutiny after a shock first-round exit in the 2026 NHL Playoffs. The Oilers fell 5-2 to the Anaheim Ducks in Game 6 on April 30, marking their earliest elimination since 2021 and raising questions about the franchise’s direction. NHL analyst Greg Wyshynski, speaking on ESPN’s “The Drop”, addressed the growing concern around McDavid’s long-term future.

“Connor signed a two-year contract extension last October to give the Oilers a three-year window to win with him before he could become an unrestricted free agent in 2028,” Wyshynski said. “And it’s hard for me to imagine that he’s going to peace out after an Oilers team slammed by injuries was ousted by the Ducks. ” MORE: Oilers management under fire as goaltending woes waste McDavid-Draisaitl prime McDavid himself did not hold back.

After the loss, he described the team as “an average team with high expectations,” pointing to the inconsistency that plagued the season. Oilers’ roster regression raises serious concerns Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (second from left) celebrates with teammates. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images The Oilers’ slide from Stanley Cup finalist to early exit has not happened overnight.

Since Stan Bowman took over as general manager in 2024, key depth pieces have exited the roster. Players like Philip Broberg, Ryan McLeod, and Warren Fogle once formed a reliable supporting cast, but their departures have left visible gaps. “These are all the kinds of players that you need to build out a roster that can be successful in the playoffs, and they’re all no longer in Edmonton,” Wyshynski said.