Connor McDavid's Newest Contract Numbers Could Spell Disaster for the Leafs with Auston Matthews

In the NHL, contracts are often measured against one another, especially among the league's elite players.

For a superstar like Connor McDavid, the consensus best player in the world, his next deal won't just impact the Edmonton Oilers, but will set the benchmark for other stars across the league.

Earlier this offseason, speculation grew that McDavid might not re-sign with Edmonton, as no contract talks were underway. That narrative appears to have shifted. Not only does it now seem likely he'll remain with the Oilers, but his projected contract figures have now been revealed to the public.

As per NHL insider Frank Seravalli, via NHL Rumour Report on X:

This projection for McDavid carries significant implications for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Auston Matthews is undoubtedly watching McDavid's situation closely, knowing it could influence his own future negotiations.

Matthews heads into his first season without longtime linemate Mitch Marner, determined to prove he can remain a dominant offensive force, while also being one of the league's premier two-way forwards.

Matthews is currently in the second year of his $13.25 million-per-season contract, with two more years remaining after 2025-26.

Given McDavid's projected deal and the steady rise of the NHL salary cap, it wouldn't be shocking if Matthews becomes the first player in league history to sign a $20 million AAV contract when his next deal comes up in three years.

As for McDavid, whatever the final number ends up being, he'll be worth every penny. Since entering the league, his skill, consistency, and dominance have been unmatched.