BREAKING NEWS: It’s done Edmonton Oilers National Hockey League Head Coach Kris Knoblauch Reacts in Shock to Crushing NBA Report from Star Connor McDavid Concerning…. read more

In a moment no one in the hockey world could’ve anticipated, Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid has stunned fans and coaching staff alike with a shocking revelation that left Head Coach Kris Knoblauch visibly shaken during post-practice media availability.

The Oilers captain, widely considered the best player in the National Hockey League, addressed reporters late Tuesday afternoon — but instead of the usual pre-season updates or off-ice charity work, McDavid pivoted to an entirely different arena.

Literally.

“It’s done,” McDavid said. “I’ve made my decision — and I’m following a childhood dream.”

The statement, vague at first, quickly gained clarity when McDavid confirmed what no one saw coming:

Connor McDavid is preparing to train for a future role in professional basketball — with the long-term goal of joining an NBA team.

🏀 A Hockey Star’s NBA Dream?

Yes, you read that right. The 28-year-old Oilers captain, coming off another Hart Trophy-caliber season, revealed he has long harbored a secret passion for basketball and has recently been in contact with trainers from multiple NBA organizations, exploring what he described as a “personal challenge” to test his athleticism beyond the rink.

“I’ve always loved the game,” McDavid told reporters. “I grew up watching Kobe, LeBron… it was a second love after hockey. I’ve achieved a lot in the NHL, but part of me wonders — what else is out there? Can I push my limits?”

While McDavid was quick to clarify he is not retiring from hockey — and remains fully committed to the Oilers for the current NHL season — his announcement sent shockwaves through both the NHL and NBA communities.

🧊 Kris Knoblauch: “I… I wasn’t ready for that”

Oilers Head Coach Kris Knoblauch was informed of McDavid’s comments in real time by a member of the media following a team skate.

His response?

A long pause, followed by a simple:

“I… I wasn’t ready for that.”

Knoblauch, who coached McDavid during his junior hockey days and again during the Oilers’ recent resurgence, appeared visibly caught off guard.

“Look, Connor’s a generational athlete,” Knoblauch added moments later. “If anyone can entertain something as crazy as playing in the NBA — maybe it’s him. But as far as the Oilers are concerned, he’s still our guy. At least for now.”

🔥 Social Media Meltdown

Within minutes, hashtags like #McDavidToTheNBA, #ConnorCrossover, and #ItIsDone began trending across X (formerly Twitter), with fans, athletes, and analysts from both leagues chiming in.

Toronto Raptors guard RJ Barrett tweeted:

“Yo @cmcdavid97 pull up to practice sometime 👀”

Meanwhile, former NBA player and analyst Jamal Crawford joked:

“If McDavid’s crossover is half as nasty as his breakaway speed… we might be in trouble.”

But not all responses were light-hearted.

Many Oilers fans expressed concern and confusion, with some accusing McDavid of turning his back on a Stanley Cup chase just as the team looks poised to contend.

“We’ve waited 8 years for a Cup. Now he wants to switch sports?”
“Respect the dream — but finish the job in Edmonton first.”

📝 Contract Implications? None — Yet

While McDavid is under contract with the Oilers through the 2025–26 NHL season, there is no clause preventing him from exploring off-season basketball training or promotional opportunities. However, any attempt to sign a professional basketball contract during the hockey season would raise serious legal and league policy questions.

NHL sources told The Athletic that as of now, McDavid has not breached any terms of his current deal, but league officials are monitoring the situation.

“We’re treating this as a passion project for Connor,” said one Oilers executive. “Not a career shift. But yes — it’s surprising.”

🗣 McDavid’s Closing Words

Before leaving the media scrum, McDavid addressed what he called “the obvious elephant in the room” — fan expectations and loyalty.

“I love Edmonton. I love this team. I’ve given everything I have to the Oilers — and I still am,” he said.
“But I also believe in challenging yourself beyond your comfort zone. That’s what makes great athletes, and great people.”

🏀 So… What Happens Now?

For now, Connor McDavid will remain an Edmonton Oiler. The team opens its 2025–26 campaign in a few weeks, with expectations high following last year’s deep playoff run.

But today’s news adds a twist no one anticipated — one that could change how we view multi-sport potential, athlete branding, and the future of one of hockey’s most iconic figures.

Whether it’s just off-season buzz, a future promotional stunt, or a sincere attempt at cross-sport greatness, one thing is clear:

Connor McDavid has the world watching. And he’s just getting started.