BREAKING NEWS: Former Edmonton Oilers Star Connor McDavid Returns to Franchise as Senior Coaching Staff Member
*Edmonton, Alberta (AP) — May 8, 2025*
In a stunning development that is already sending ripples across the National Hockey League, the Edmonton Oilers announced Thursday morning that former franchise icon Connor McDavid is returning to the organization—this time, behind the bench.
McDavid, widely regarded as one of the most electrifying and dominant players of his generation, has been appointed to the Oilers’ senior coaching staff, less than a year after announcing his retirement from professional hockey. The 28-year-old, who served as captain of the Oilers for nearly a decade, will join the team in a special advisory and assistant coaching role, working closely with head coach Kris Knoblauch to develop player strategy and offensive systems.
“Connor McDavid is synonymous with excellence, leadership, and the spirit of the Edmonton Oilers,” said Oilers General Manager Ken Holland in a press conference Thursday morning. “Bringing him back into the organization in a leadership capacity is not just a win for our players, but for the city, the fans, and the entire hockey community. His knowledge of the game is unmatched, and his presence will be invaluable in shaping the next era of Oilers hockey.”
McDavid’s return to Edmonton marks a full-circle moment for a player who, from the time he was drafted first overall in 2015, carried the weight of a franchise desperate for a return to its glory days. Over his 10-season career, McDavid amassed over 1,100 points, including 346 goals and 765 assists, and won numerous accolades including multiple Art Ross Trophies, Hart Memorial Trophies, and the Ted Lindsay Award. His impact on the game extended beyond statistics—his speed, vision, and creativity set a new standard for modern hockey.
At Thursday’s press conference, McDavid appeared relaxed and energized, wearing a navy-blue suit and Oilers lapel pin as he addressed a packed media room at Rogers Place.
“Edmonton has always been home for me,” McDavid said. “This organization gave me everything I could have asked for as a player. Now, I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back in a different way. Coaching is something I’ve thought about for a while, and I believe I can help mentor the next generation of Oilers players both on and off the ice.”
When asked about the timing of his return, McDavid admitted that stepping away from the game after his abrupt retirement in late 2024 had been difficult.
“I still had the passion. The fire was still there,” he said. “While I may not be lacing up the skates anymore, I can still be part of the battles, the preparation, the growth. That’s what excites me now.”
The Oilers finished the 2024-2025 regular season with a 45-30-7 record, securing a playoff berth but falling short of a deep run. The team has faced growing expectations in recent years, buoyed by a talented young core and solid leadership. The addition of McDavid to the coaching staff is seen by analysts as a strategic move aimed at leveraging his hockey IQ and firsthand experience to fine-tune the team’s offense and leadership culture.
“He’s not just a former superstar—he’s a student of the game,” said NHL Network analyst Kevin Weekes. “Connor understands nuances that many coaches spend decades trying to learn. His transition into coaching could be one of the most seamless we’ve ever seen.”
Though his new role will not see him acting as head coach or general manager, sources within the Oilers organization indicate McDavid will have significant input in player development, special teams, and leadership initiatives. He is also expected to play a role in scouting and mentoring the team’s draft prospects.
Fans across Edmonton and the hockey world reacted with excitement and emotion as news broke across social media platforms Thursday morning. #McDavidReturns began trending within the hour, with many Oilers supporters hailing the announcement as a pivotal turning point for the franchise.
Season ticket holder Teresa Langevin, who has followed the Oilers since the 1980s, called the move “a dream come true.”
“Connor gave us hope when he came here as a teenager. Now he’s coming back to help build something even greater. It’s hard to imagine a more inspiring comeback story.”
McDavid is expected to officially join the Oilers’ coaching meetings ahead of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft in June and will be behind the bench during pre-season training camp later this fall.
With one of the most revered figures in modern hockey now turning his focus to coaching, the Oilers—and the NHL—stand at the cusp of a compelling new chapter.
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