The Edmonton Oilers are fresh off a strong performance in the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs. After making it to the Finals, the Oilers have faced some difficult decisions amid speculations that are placing pressure on the front staff. Edmonton faces the challenge of matching contract offer papers for Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg.
The St. Louis Blues made offers to Holloway and Broberg in mid-August. Both players are restricted-free agents. However, Edmonton is said to emphasize only one of its contributors.
NHL Trade Rumors reports that Sportsnet hockey source Elliott Friedman believes the Oilers will match the offer sheet for Holloway rather than Broberg. Friedman surmised that Broberg and Edmonton do not totally agree, and that the team will not pay his $4.6 million AVV price.
Philip Broberg allegedly demanded a trade out of Edmonton earlier in the 2023-24 season, and Friedman believes his stance has not altered significantly.
“It was true…” Broberg’s decision to stay with the Oilers was well-considered. I’m just not certain he ever altered his mind,” Friedman stated, as reported by NHL Trade Rumors.
Broberg had two assists and two points in 12 games with the Oilers in 2023-24. Maybe joining the Blues will give the 23-year-old defenceman a much-needed boost.
On the other hand, Dylan Holloway could be a better fit for Edmonton.
Oilers continue to plan for the future, amid encouraging short-term efforts.
Dylan Holloway, only 22 years old, has laid a foundation that appears to have impressed Edmonton. He appeared in 55 games for the Oilers during his rookie season in 2022-23, scoring three goals and six assists for a total of nine points. He finished the 2023-24 season with 38 appearances, six goals, three assists, and nine points. If Edmonton follows through and keeps Holloway, he can continue to develop into a significant member of the club.
The Oilers were just a hair away from winning the 2024 Stanley Cup Finals, but the Florida Panthers wouldn’t let them capitalize on their historic series comeback. Edmonton’s slide exacerbated major concerns for the 2024-25 season.
According to ClutchPoints’ Christopher Hennessy, the Oilers need to improve their goaltending and scoring depth for the upcoming season. The front staff will do everything possible to help the team remain a title contender while also planning for the future.
It will be intriguing to observe how the Oilers develop as they prepare for another exciting season.
