Connor McDavid opens up on controversial decision to not accept the Conn Smythe Award

The 2023/24 Stanley Cup Finals were one of the most exciting in history, and after clawing back from an 0-3 deficit, the Edmonton Oilers fought back to force a Game 7 against the Florida Panthers. Unfortunately for Oilers fans, the team couldn't finish off the comeback, as they ultimately fell on the road in Game 7, allowing the Panthers to pick up their first Stanley Cup win in franchise history.

Despite the loss, Connor McDavid was incredible in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, tallying 8 goals and 42 points in 25 games played, and ultimately, it led him to the Conn Smythe Trophy. However, that's when controversy followed, as the Oilers captain refused to come out when he was announced as the winner, with the raucous crowd in Florida boo'ing him and the Commissioner Gary Bettman in the process.

Now after months of waiting, the Oilers captain has commented on the situation again, and unsurprisingly, he's doubled down on the decision that's drawn him plenty of criticism.

Ultimately, McDavid made the right choice when he chose to stay with his heartbroken locker room over accepting an individual award, and now he and the rest of the Oilers have the goal of going one better in 2024/25 as they look to win the organizations first Stanley Cup since 1990.

Source: Oilers Daily
Connor McDavid Comments on Refusing to Accept Conn Smythe Trophy