Connor McDavid heartbroken ahead of 2024-25 season opener…

The start of a new NHL season is always exciting for Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid, but there is something quite different about this one. Just a couple of months ago, he was just one goal away from the Stanley Cup. When Game 7 was over last month and the Florida Panthers were celebrating as champions, the Edmonton Oilers’ captain remained on the ice as all of his teammates headed to the dressing room, showing an inspiring leadership. He was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy for most valuable player during the playoffs despite playing for the losing team, though he did not come out onto the ice to accept the Conn Smythe trophy on Florida ice.

Ahead of the 2024-25 season, McDavid was asked about his offseason, which was a busy one with his wedding to Lauren Kyle and his honeymoon. While a lot of positive took place, the Oilers superstar was forced to admit to Michael Traikos of the Hockey News that the hurt and heartbreak of falling short in the Stanley Cup Final never goes away.

“For me, there hasn’t been a ton of sitting back and reflecting. It’s been go-go-go. For me, that’s almost been good, being busy. Again, I’m not sure it’s something that you ever get over.

“(Ex-Oilers GM) Kenny Holland met with us after the season and he talked about losing in ’09 in Game 7. How the disappointment sticks with him to this day. And that’s coming from a guy who’s won Cups before. So I’m not sure it’s something you ever get over. But time moves on.”

The hope in Edmonton is that the Oilers and McDavid will more motivated than ever to get back to the Stanley Cup Final and win the championship this time around. McDavid made changes to his offseason training to make sure he was not only ready to the upcoming campaign, but also rested and healthy.

McDavid wants to move past the heartbreak of losing the championship this past summer, and as Traikos puts it, it may come with “engraving your name on the Stanley Cup.”