As Connor McDavid's contract with the Edmonton Oilers nears its expiration in July 2026, speculation about his future with the team is intensifying. While McDavid has led the Oilers to consecutive Stanley Cup Finals, he hasn't committed to an extension, leading to questions about whether he'll remain in Edmonton or explore other options. Adding another layer to the situation is his wife, Lauren Kyle, who is establishing a growing business presence in Edmonton.

Kyle, an interior designer and entrepreneur, has launched several ventures in Edmonton, including Trove Living, a luxury furniture and design store that also houses her design firm, Kyle & Co. She also has an intimate gathering space, Bar Trove. Furthermore, her fashion label, Sports Club Atelier, has secured a deal with Team Canada for the 2026 Winter Olympics. This deal will see her fashion line roll out Olympic merchandise in major retail stores. Kyle told Forbes that she sees a lot of opportunity with the brand beyond just the NHL or hockey.

Kyle's growing business empire in Edmonton has led to speculation about its potential influence on McDavid's decision regarding his future with the Oilers. As she establishes deeper roots in the city, her success could factor into McDavid's choice of where to spend the next chapter of his NHL career. Some observers suggest that Kyle's ventures and her growing presence in Edmonton could make the city a more attractive and stable long-term home for the couple.

McDavid has stated that winning is the most important thing and that signing an extension would be no problem if he feels there's a good window to win in Edmonton consistently. However, he also emphasized the need to do what's best for himself and his family.

Lauren Kyle's influence extends beyond her business ventures. She is credited with strengthening the bond between McDavid and his teammate Leon Draisaitl. Kyle introduced Draisaitl to her best friend, and she believes that their close friendship has also strengthened the bond between the Oilers' two best players. Draisaitl signed an eight-year extension with the Oilers last September. Kyle said that it’s a dream to have your best friend on the team, and they get along so well, so you can’t ask for anything better than that.

McDavid has been supportive of Kyle's entrepreneurial endeavors. He gifted her business-coach sessions for her birthday early in their relationship. Kyle said that she has been working with her coach for four years and doesn't think she could open this many businesses without her guidance. She also added that she is a creative and not a business mind first, so she needed to develop a way of thinking that you need when you’re an entrepreneur.

While it remains to be seen what McDavid will decide, his wife's growing business presence in Edmonton has added an intriguing dimension to the ongoing speculation about his future with the Oilers. Her success and commitment to the city could be a significant factor as McDavid weighs his options and considers where he wants to spend the next chapter of his career.