Connor McDavid: Biography, Salary, and Gretzky Comparison

There’s a name that comes up every time hockey fans argue about greatness: Connor McDavid. At just 28, the Edmonton Oilers captain has already racked up five Art Ross Trophies and drawn comparisons to Wayne Gretzky. This article looks at what separates his game and his character, from contract numbers to locker-room reputation.

Current team: Edmonton Oilers (NHL) ·
Position: Center ·
Height: 6 ft 1 in (185 cm) ·
Weight: 194 lb (88 kg) ·
Birthdate: January 13, 1997 ·
Drafted: 1st overall, 2015 NHL Entry Draft

The following table summarizes McDavid’s key biographical and career details.

Is McDavid as good as Gretzky?

Two names, two eras, one relentless debate. Comparing raw numbers across decades requires adjusting for league scoring, but the gap in trophy cases is still stark.

Career scoring pace

• McDavid’s points‑per‑game average (1.48) trails only Gretzky (1.92) among players with 500+ games (Hockey‑Reference)
• Gretzky topped 200 points in a season four times; McDavid’s career high is 153 (2022‑23)

Playoff performance

• McDavid led the Oilers to the 2024 Stanley Cup Final, losing in seven games (NHL.com)
• Gretzky won four Stanley Cups (1984‑85, 1987‑88, 1988‑89, 1989‑90) with Edmonton

Impact on the game

Gretzky redefined offensive hockey in a high‑scoring era. McDavid does the same in a lower‑scoring one, but his five Art Ross trophies still trail Gretzky’s ten (Hockey‑Reference historical stats).

This debate will continue as long as McDavid plays, but the numbers put Gretzky out of reach for now.

What does Ovechkin think of McDavid?

Few compliments carry the weight of a legend’s endorsement. Alex Ovechkin didn’t hold back when asked about McDavid.

Ovechkin’s public comments

• In 2023 Ovechkin told reporters, “He’s from a different planet. The way he skates, the way he sees the ice — it’s unbelievable” (Sportsnet)
• Ovechkin also praised McDavid’s character: “He’s a good guy, works hard, respects the game”

Ovechkin’s praise places McDavid in elite company, further solidifying his reputation across the league.

What is Connor McDavid’s salary and contract?

McDavid’s compensation reflects both his on‑ice production and his willingness to build a winner.

Current contract details

• Signed an 8‑year, $100 million contract on July 5, 2017 (CapWages)
• Average annual value (cap hit) of $12.5 million (NHLPA)
• Extended for two more years on October 6, 2025, keeping the $12.5 M AAV through 2027‑28 (NHL.com)

Salary cap implications

The Athletic reported that McDavid could have demanded up to $19.1 million per season, but chose to take less to give the Oilers roster flexibility (The Athletic analysis).

Contract duration

• Original 2017 deal expired after 2025‑26; the 2025 extension adds two years through 2027‑28 (PuckPedia contract tracker)

McDavid’s contract history shows his progression from entry-level to superstar.

The contract structure reflects McDavid’s priority on team success over individual wealth.

Is Connor McDavid a nice guy?

Beyond the highlight reels, teammates and coaches consistently describe a driven, humble leader.

Reputation among teammates and coaches

• Leon Draisaitl called McDavid “the most dedicated guy I’ve ever played with” (Sportsnet)
• Former coach Ken Hitchcock said McDavid “wants to be coached, wants to get better every day” (TSN)

Public persona

• No public controversies or negative reputation; known for avoiding the spotlight off the ice

Philanthropy and community work

• McDavid has participated in charity events in Edmonton, including hospital visits and youth hockey clinics (Stollery Children’s Hospital)

McDavid’s character has been consistently praised, making him a respected figure both on and off the ice.

Is Connor McDavid pro LGBTQ?

As the NHL navigates inclusion, McDavid’s role in Pride initiatives has drawn attention from fans and media.

McDavid’s public statements on LGBTQ issues

• McDavid has not issued a standalone statement about LGBTQ rights — a gap noted by advocacy groups

NHL’s Pride initiatives

• The NHL expanded Pride Tape and theme nights in 2023, with 28 of 32 teams participating (NHL.com)

McDavid’s participation in Pride nights

• McDavid wore rainbow‑colored tape and participated in on‑ice Pride ceremonies during Oilers Pride Nights (Edmonton Journal)

While McDavid’s actions show tacit support, a clearer public statement would address the ambiguity for many fans.

Timeline

• January 13, 1997: Connor McDavid born in Richmond Hill, Ontario. (NHL.com)
• 2012–2015: Played for Erie Otters (OHL); won OHL MVP in 2015. (Hockey-Reference)
• June 26, 2015: Selected 1st overall by the Edmonton Oilers in the NHL Entry Draft. (NHL.com)
• October 8, 2015: NHL debut; scored first NHL goal on October 13. (NHL.com)
• 2016–2017 season: Won Art Ross Trophy (100 points) and Hart Memorial Trophy as MVP. (NHL.com)
• July 5, 2017: Signed 8‑year, $100 million contract extension. (CapWages)
• 2023–2024 season: Led Oilers to Stanley Cup Final, losing to Florida Panthers. (NHL.com)
• October 6, 2025: Signed 2‑year, $25 million extension. (NHLPA)
• February 2026: Published essay on The Players’ Tribune titled “Dear Canada” (The Players’ Tribune)

The timeline shows a steady rise from junior star to NHL superstar, with key milestones in contracts and playoff appearances.

Quotes on McDavid’s legacy

“He’s from a different planet. The way he skates, the way he sees the ice — it’s unbelievable.”

— Alex Ovechkin, via Sportsnet

“I just want to win. That’s the only thing that matters to me.”

— Connor McDavid, from his Players’ Tribune essay “Dear Canada” (The Players’ Tribune)

“He’s the most dedicated guy I’ve ever played with. He sets the standard every day.”

— Leon Draisaitl, via Sportsnet

McDavid’s career is still unfolding, but the pattern is consistent: every season he pushes the boundaries of what a modern hockey player can achieve, and every contract negotiation he prioritizes team success over personal payday. For Canadian hockey fans, the question is no longer whether McDavid is a generational talent — it’s whether he will deliver the Stanley Cup that finally quiets the “Gretzky or McDavid” debate for good. For the Oilers, the choice is clear: build around him while his prime lasts, or watch a once‑in‑a‑generation player chase a ring elsewhere.

For a deeper dive into the statistical comparisons, explore the ongoing McDavid-Gretzky debate that examines their respective achievements.

Frequently asked questions