McDavid's two-year extension to 25 million keeps Edmonton’s window to win intact, framed by Jud Mulaver’s patient, data-driven process that prioritized fit over max-term dollars. Escrow refunds and a rising cap loom large for roster planning, while Bedard’s surge in Chicago and Detroit’s youth movement add fantasy upside. Montreal’s Hudson negotiations and World Cup host chatter pepper the market outlook in a way that blends on-ice and business angles.

Fantasy takeaway: Oilers’ ability to keep star talent while preserving cap space bodes well for supporting casts and late-round upside. Bedard, Kane, and Detroit’s youngsters offer early sleeper potential as cap dynamics shift, and market shifts from the Hudson saga to the Cup bid could ripple roster moves in 2024-25 and beyond.