Connor McDavid's agent Moldaver reveals approach behind Oilers superstar's surprisingly low contract

Connor McDavid’s decision to sign a two-year extension at the same $12.5 million average annual value surprised everyone in early October. Many expected the Edmonton Oilers captain to command a larger number, especially with salaries rising across the league. Kirill Kaprizov and Leon Draisaitl both signed deals worth far more per season.

Yet McDavid chose stability over maximum value. His agent, Judd Moldaver, recently explained the thinking behind this approach. Speaking on 100% Hockey, Moldaver said the process began with patience and clear communication.

"All credit to Connor in terms of how he handled this summer," Moldaver said. [15:07 onwards] "I think it was very evident, if you didn't know much about him, if you knew a little bit about him, how just transparent he was and is about how he's feeling, proud of the way he handled things.

"He was forthright, and he was consistent. We wanted to take our time, you know, without being nauseatingly redundant. I think the key was just taking his time and not being in a rush."

Connor McDavid did not want to chase comparisons to other players’ contracts. The focus remained on Edmonton’s situation and how the roster could stay competitive.

Moldaver stressed that each NHL team faces unique constraints, even though they are under the same CBA. His responsibility was to match McDavid’s goals with a plan that fit the Oilers’ future.

"We didn't spend a lot of time on the math, because I think for us, the math was relatively simple to deduce just where Edmonton was at, speculating and obviously working with Stan and Jeff on what they were going to try and achieve," Moldaver said.

"There was a range, which I won't get into, that him and I discussed, and I'm proud of the decision he made. It's a great deal for the team, obviously, as been well talked about, it's still a great deal for him.'

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Connor McDavid's opinion on the $12.5M AAV contract

A major point in Connor McDavid's talks was Edmonton’s recent success. The Oilers reached the Stanley Cup Final in two straight seasons, giving McDavid confidence in the team’s direction.

"I obviously said I was committed to winning here and I meant that when I said that and two years makes a lot of sense," McDavid said, in early October to the media.

"It gives us a chance to continue chasing down what we’ve been chasing down here with the core guys we have in here, and we have a little bit of money to work with, too. I think the deal makes sense to both sides."

Keeping the AAV low allowed Edmonton more room to address other needs. This balance was the main reason why McDavid chose this deal.

This season, Connor McDavid continues to deliver elite production, with 9 goals and 30 points. He sits near the top of the league in points. However, the Oilers have struggled to find consistency, sitting at 9-9-4. Their offense remains strong, but defensive issues have held them back.