Seravalli Predicts McDavid Could Exit Edmonton Via Sign-and-Trade
Frank Seravalli wrote in his first Sportsnet column that Connor McDavid will not sign an extension with Edmonton next summer and could play out 2027-28. If McDavid ultimately changes teams, Seravalli expects a small sign-and-trade involving his rights, similar to how Mitch Marner went from Toronto to Vegas, rather than a conventional blockbuster. McDavid is in the first season of a two-year, $12.5 million extension, and Edmonton's recent playoff exit and coaching change under Mike Babcock are part of the backdrop.
Frank Seravalli's Sportsnet debut included 32 bold predictions, one per club. He expects Connor McDavid to forgo an extension with Edmonton next summer and complete the 2027-28 season. If McDavid relocates, Seravalli envisions a modest sign-and-trade for his rights, not a blockbuster, citing Mitch Marner's Toronto-to-Vegas move as a model.
McDavid is in year one of a two-year, $12.5 million extension. Edmonton reached consecutive Cup finals but lost in the first round last spring, then replaced Kris Knoblauch with Mike Babcock in June. McDavid has not signaled a desire to leave and reportedly backed Babcock's hiring; TSN panel estimates on his re-signing ranged widely.
If McDavid were to leave, Edmonton fans and local businesses tied to game-day activity could feel disappointment and reduced spending, while the NHL might gain a major star in a larger or new market. Trade speculation may also intensify media coverage and fan debate. The outcome remains uncertain, so any social or economic effects would depend on whether he actually departs and where he lands.