Connor McDavid’s future with the Edmonton Oilers remains a major NHL storyline despite his current contract keeping him under team control.
NHL Network analyst E.J. Hradek recently named three potential destinations if McDavid eventually decides to leave Edmonton. Speaking on the Bleed Oil Blue Podcast, Hradek identified the Philadelphia Flyers, Detroit Red Wings and New York Rangers.
Hradek stressed that winning would drive McDavid’s decision. “But I think if Connor leaves and goes anywhere, I think he’s going to want to go somewhere where what?” Hradek said.
“He has a chance to win the ultimate prize. That’s why he would leave,” Hradek added.
The comments come after another frustrating season for Edmonton. McDavid won his sixth Art Ross Trophy after producing 138 points, but the Oilers lost to Anaheim in six games during the first playoff round.
Hradek acknowledged he does not have a close relationship with McDavid. “I do not have a close relationship and don’t really know Connor McDavid at all,” he said.
Still, the analyst believes certain markets could appeal to the superstar. “Perhaps Philadelphia or Detroit would be locations that he would be amenable to,” Hradek said.
Winning could shape Connor McDavid’s next move
Philadelphia would offer McDavid a major hockey market with room to build around an elite centerpiece. The Flyers would need significant roster growth before becoming a clear championship destination.
Detroit offers another interesting structure. The Red Wings have young talent and could provide McDavid with a strong supporting core if their development continues.
The Rangers present a different attraction. Hradek pointed to New York’s financial flexibility and the attention that comes with playing in the city.
“The Rangers come up because the Rangers are going to have a lot of cap space,” Hradek said. “It is New York after all. The Knicks just won the NBA title and maybe seeing something like that where there’s an outpouring of love in New York, that could influence somebody maybe to want to do that.”
That combination could matter if McDavid eventually prioritizes both competitiveness and market impact.
However, Edmonton still has reasons to believe McDavid can stay. He remains under contract through the 2027-28 season, giving the Oilers time to improve their roster.
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The organization also reshaped its defense and goaltending after the early playoff exit. Those moves show management understands the urgency surrounding McDavid’s prime.
The bigger issue remains performance. McDavid has consistently produced at an elite level, but Edmonton must build a roster capable of matching that production in the playoffs.
Hradek’s comments therefore focus less on speculation and more on the standard McDavid has already established. If he ever leaves, winning will likely matter more than location alone.
