As the Edmonton Oilers battle for hockey’s ultimate prize, the hometown of their captain is making sure everyone knows exactly where Connor McDavid’s journey began. Newmarket, Ontario has once again transformed its downtown gathering space into “Connor McDavid Square” as the hockey phenom leads his team through the Stanley Cup Finals.
The temporary renaming of Riverwalk Commons marks the second time the York Region municipality has honored its most famous son during this playoff run. Local officials first renamed the plaza during the Western Conference Finals, but the tribute has returned with even greater enthusiasm as McDavid stands just four wins away from lifting Lord Stanley’s Cup.
“Connor represents the very best of Newmarket—dedication, excellence, and community spirit,” said Mayor John Taylor in a statement announcing the renewed celebration. “As he continues this historic playoff run, we want Connor and his family to know that his hometown stands united behind him.”
The space has become a rallying point for local fans, with hundreds gathering to watch games on large screens and celebrate McDavid’s remarkable playoff performance. The 27-year-old superstar has been nothing short of spectacular, recording 31 points in 18 playoff games while showcasing the extraordinary talent that has defined his NHL career.
McDavid’s connection to Newmarket runs deep. Before becoming the face of Canadian hockey, he developed his skills with the York-Simcoe Express and attended Newmarket High School. His impact on the community extends beyond the ice—the Connor McDavid Hockey Academy continues to nurture young talent in the region, while his charitable initiatives have supported numerous local causes.
“This isn’t just about hockey—it’s about celebrating someone who never forgot where he came from,” explained lifelong Newmarket resident Sarah Jenkins, who brought her two young sons to the square for Game 1. “My boys wear his number and practice his moves every day. He’s shown them what’s possible with hard work and determination.”
The square has been decorated with Oilers colors, McDavid jerseys, and banners displaying his number 97. Local businesses have joined the celebration, offering “McDavid specials” and decorating storefronts in support of the hometown hero. The enthusiasm has extended throughout York Region, with neighboring communities Aurora and East Gwillimbury also displaying messages of support.
This community pride reflects McDavid’s extraordinary impact on the game. Since being selected first overall in the 2015 NHL Draft, he has collected five Art Ross Trophies, four Ted Lindsay Awards, and three Hart Memorial Trophies as the league’s most valuable player. The Stanley Cup, however, has remained elusive—until possibly now.
“We’ve watched Connor mature from a hockey prodigy into one of the greatest players of all time,” noted his former minor hockey coach, Rob Mitchell. “What impresses me most isn’t just his skill—it’s his leadership and how he’s elevated everyone around him in Edmonton.”
As the Oilers continue their quest against the Florida Panthers, Newmarket officials have confirmed that Connor McDavid Square will remain in place throughout the finals. Win or lose, the community plans a summer celebration to honor McDavid’s achievements when he returns home in the offseason.
In a sports landscape often defined by transience, the enduring connection between McDavid and Newmarket serves as a powerful reminder of how deeply athletes can impact the communities that shaped them. As this small Ontario town rallies behind its favorite son, one question remains: Will Connor McDavid Square soon host the ultimate celebration with Lord Stanley’s Cup?
