Connor McDavid reacts to Darnell Nurse trade as Rangers monitor his future

Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid said he was “obviously disappointed” to see longtime defenseman Darnell Nurse traded to the San Jose Sharks, describing the move as “part of the business, unfortunately” and noting it was hard to put into words how much Nurse meant to the team. The trade, which sent Nurse’s eight‑year, $74 million contract to San Jose in exchange for defenseman Shakir Mukhamadullin and prospect Zack Sharp, was the most significant roster change for Edmonton this offseason, alongside the hiring of new head coach Mike Babcock and assistant D.J. Smith.

Hockey analyst Mike Rupp told Daily Faceoff that the New York Rangers have been closely monitoring McDavid’s situation and could be among the teams pursuing him if he becomes available, saying the Rangers “have always had an eye on Connor McDavid” and may have a plan to make a big move in the future.