The Edmonton Oilers are heading into the 2025-26 NHL season with tension brewing over their superstar captain, Connor McDavid. With contract negotiations stretching longer than usual, fans and analysts alike are questioning the team’s direction. McDavid’s status is central to the Oilers’ championship aspirations, and every passing day adds urgency as the season opener against the Calgary Flames looms on October 8.

While McDavid dominates headlines, another high-profile name has entered the conversation. Three-time Stanley Cup champion Sidney Crosby has been the subject of ongoing trade rumors, with whispers of a potential Edmonton landing circulating in sports media. The idea of pairing Crosby with McDavid is tantalizing for any NHL team, but how realistic is it?

The Athletic’s Daniel Nu

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