Wayne Gretzky commented on Connor McDavid’s new $25 million deal, highlighting the pressure on the Oilers as the superstar center led the team’s push for success.

The Oilers are outscoring opponents 18-15 with one or both McDavid and Draisaitl on the ice, but being outscored 8-16 when the two big centres are on the bench. Part of the problem may be due to long stretches where the third and fourth lines don’t play much.

The Oilers enjoyed a comeback victory over the Blue Jackets on Monday, and Kris Knoblauch had to praise the performance of Connor McDavid.

Connor McDavid's new two-year, $25 million extension with the Edmonton Oilers signals an urgent championship window. Hockey legend Wayne Gretzky praised McDavid's commitment, emphasizing the need for the team to capitalize on this era.

The Edmonton Oilers were routed 9-1 by the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday night, matching the franchise’s worst margin of defeat on home ice. Nathan MacKinnon led the way for Colorado with two goals and two assists. Cale Makar and Jack Drury also scored twice, while Parker Kelly added two goals and an assist.

Frustration is starting to seep in with the Edmonton Oilers, and captain Connor McDavid is trying to get the team back on track.

Columbus Blue Jackets barely survive late push by Edmonton Oilers, who'd stunned them four days earlier with late comeback and overtime win.