Oilers Seek Reunion with Holloway Amid Blues’ Commitment to Rising Star
The Edmonton Oilers have faced significant roster changes in recent seasons. Despite making back-to-back appearances in the Stanley Cup Finals, the constraints of the salary cap have necessitated a flurry of player transactions. While the core group of stars has remained intact, the periphery of the roster has seen substantial alterations.
Among the most impactful moves was the loss of promising talents Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg, who were snatched up by the St. Louis Blues through offer sheets last summer. While the decision not to match Broberg’s hefty contract made strategic sense, the situation surrounding Holloway appears more contentious. His average annual salary of just under $2.3 million was more than manageable for the Oilers, and a breakout season in 2024-25 has amplified the regret surrounding his departure.
Potential Trade Proposal for Holloway
In an attempt to rectify last offseason’s misstep, Caleb Kerney of Heavy Sports has floated the idea of a major trade that would bring Holloway back to Edmonton. The proposed deal would see the Oilers acquire Holloway while sending Matt Savoie, Troy Stecher, and a 2026 third-round pick to St. Louis.
“This proposal gives the Oilers a legitimate option in their top six who is familiar with the majority of the team,” Kerney noted. “In return, the Blues would acquire a young prospect with a two-way game who can contribute immediately.”
Holloway, who was drafted 14th overall in 2020, had a breakout year with the Blues, tallying 26 goals and 63 points in 77 games. Savoie, a forward originally selected ninth overall by the Buffalo Sabres in 2022, spent most of the 2024-25 season in the AHL, where he notched 54 points in 66 games.
With Holloway entering the final season of his two-year, $4,580,914 contract, the Oilers are poised to make a move.
Blues’ Commitment to Holloway
Despite the allure of reuniting with Holloway, it seems highly improbable that the Blues would entertain the idea of parting ways with him. Holloway thrived in his first season in St. Louis, amassing 63 points and establishing impressive chemistry with star center Robert Thomas. His performance indicates that he will be a cornerstone for the Blues going forward.
The only scenario in which Holloway could become available might hinge on unsuccessful contract negotiations with the Blues. However, given his enjoyment of playing in St. Louis and the team’s projected cap space of nearly $26 million next summer, it appears the Oilers may need to redirect their efforts if they wish to bolster their forward lineup.
As it stands, the path to Holloway’s return to Edmonton is fraught with obstacles, and the Oilers may need to consider alternative strategies to enhance their roster.
