July 5 has been a notable date in NHL history, marked by significant contracts, coaching changes, and player moves that have shaped the league’s landscape.
Connor McDavid’s $100 Million Contract Extension
On July 5, 2017, Connor McDavid, the reigning NHL scoring champion, signed an eight-year, $100 million contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers. This contract, beginning with the 2018-19 season, made McDavid the highest-paid player in the NHL with an average annual value of $12.5 million. McDavid’s extension came after a stellar 2016-17 season where he led the league with 100 points, earning both the Hart Trophy and the Ted Lindsay Award.
“It’s insane to really think about, someone is going to pay me $100 million to do what I would do anyway on a regular day; it’s insane,” McDavid remarked about his monumental contract. His leadership and performance were crucial in helping the Oilers reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2006.
Other Notable Events
- 1979: Don Cherry was replaced as the coach of the Boston Bruins by Fred Creighton. Cherry’s tenure in Boston included four Adams Division titles and two trips to the Stanley Cup Final.
- 1995: Mike Milbury was named the head coach of the New York Islanders, eventually taking on the role of general manager as well.
- 2000: The Columbus Blue Jackets hired Dave King as their first coach, starting the journey of the new franchise.
- 2013: Daniel Alfredsson ended his 17-year career with the Ottawa Senators by signing with the Detroit Red Wings. On the same day, Jarome Iginla joined the Boston Bruins on a one-year contract.
These moments highlight the dynamic nature of the NHL and the impactful decisions that occur during the off-season. Whether it’s groundbreaking contracts, coaching changes, or significant player moves, July 5 has proven to be a day of noteworthy events in hockey history.
