Maple Leafs Predicted to Land Connor McDavid, Build 'Dominant 1-2 Punch'

Maple Leafs Predicted to Land Connor McDavid, Build 'Dominant 1-2 Punch' originally appeared on Athlon Sports.Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid isnt a free agent yet, but speculation around his future has already begun to heat up with just one year left on his contract.Bleacher Reports Adam Gretz delivered one of the boldest scenarios yet in an article suggesting seven potential destinations for McDavid once the time comes for him to make a decision.Gretz proposed a hypothetical where the Maple Leafs land McDavid in 2026, thus creating a "dominant 1-2 punch" alongside Auston Matthews in the leagues biggest Canadian market.The Maple Leafs already have their own superstar and No.

1 center in Auston Matthews, Gretz wrote.

But if McDavid ever does become available, Toronto would have to find a way to get involved in the bidding.Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid carries the puck around Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews.Perry Nelson-Imagn Images Gretz added that the opportunity to pair Canadas top talent with one of its most iconic franchises especially one in McDavids home province would be too significant to ignore.How often would Canadas biggest hockey market have a chance to acquire Canadas best player? Especially one that was born in the Greater Toronto Area? Gretz said.Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid is entering the final year of his contract.Bob Frid-Imagn ImagesWhile the Oilers are expected to offer McDavid the richest contract in league history, negotiations havent started in full with both sides only discussing early details and the outlook of Edmonton's future.

We havent talked to him at all about his contract, Oilers GM Stan Bowman said at the start of free agency.

Its really just been talking to him about our team and how we can improve and what he sees and that kind of stuff.So, the conversations havent even started as far as a contract.McDavid, now 28, has made it clear that family and long-term priorities will guide his next step, and that his decision will depend on both the Oilers' moves and his family's opinion on the matter.Ultimately, I still need to do whats best for me and my family, McDavid said.Related: Oilers GM Reveals Where Things Stand with Connor McDavid's ExtensionRelated: Oilers GM Sends Clear Message Amid Connor McDavid's Contract SituationThis story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared..

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