Connor McDavid is about to become very, very rich—and NHL player agents are already predicting it will happen sooner rather than later.
According to an annual survey of more than 20 player representatives released Monday by The Athletic, the overwhelming consensus is clear: McDavid will be the league's highest-paid player by the 2028-29 season. Out of 21 responses, 13 agents named the Oilers captain, with MacKin Celebrini, Cale Makar, Kirill Kaprizov, and Brady Tkachuk splitting the remaining votes.
The prediction makes financial sense. McDavid currently carries an annual salary of $12.5 million—a figure widely considered team-friendly given his status as one of the sport's elite talents. He signed a two-year extension with Edmonton last October after contract negotiations dominated headlines earlier in the season.
The Perfect Storm for a Massive Deal
By 2028-29, when McDavid's contract expires, he'll be 31 years old and still in his prime. More importantly, the NHL's salary cap is projected to balloon to over $113 million—nearly $20 million higher than the current $95.5 million figure. That dramatic increase creates unprecedented financial flexibility for teams willing to make McDavid their franchise centrepiece.
One anonymous agent surveyed didn't mince words about the coming payday: "McDavid will get whatever he wants. I think he's going to be $20 million, and I don't think San Jose is going to give Celebrini that yet. But it wouldn't surprise me. He's that good."
By accepting a discount now to keep the Oilers competitive for a Stanley Cup run, McDavid has positioned himself for a blockbuster contract negotiation in just 24 months. The strategy appears deliberate—sacrifice short-term earnings for a shot at championship glory, then cash in when the opportunity arises.
Will He Stay in Orange and Blue?
One intriguing detail from the survey suggests McDavid's next contract might not be with the Oilers. When asked about McDavid's future destination, one agent responded pointedly: "McDavid's new contract with the Leafs (or Rangers)."
Such speculation remains premature, but it underscores a reality in professional sports: even loyal superstars occasionally seek new horizons. That said, other agents noted that McDavid "is not in it for the money," suggesting the Oilers' captain prioritizes winning and legacy over maximum earnings.
In other survey findings, the Oilers received recognition as one of the league's easiest front offices to negotiate with, though the Minnesota Wild took top honours with five votes in that category.
This article is based on reporting from OilersNation, Canada's premier Edmonton Oilers news source.