Oilers Face Key Decision on Young Players

The Edmonton Oilers are on the verge of making a significant decision that could shape their future. With the deadline approaching, they have to decide whether to match the St. Louis Blues’ offer sheets for two of their promising young players, Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway.

There’s a lot of speculation that the Oilers will likely match on Broberg’s deal, which is worth $4.58 million over two years. Meanwhile, the fate of Holloway, who received a $2.29 million offer, hangs in the balance.

Recent trades have left the Oilers with more room to maneuver. With Cody Ceci and Vincent Desharnais leaving the team, management can now open up some valuable cap space. This puts them in a better position to keep Broberg, who has shown potential, especially during the Stanley Cup Final.

Hockey writer Jeremy Rutherford has shared insights that the Oilers are likely preparing to match Broberg’s offer while allowing Holloway to go. However, there might still be a chance they could match both, especially if Evander Kane moves to Long Term Injured Reserve.

The situation has changed the leverage dynamics a bit between the Oilers and the Blues. With St. Louis interested in both players, it’s possible they might now need to offer something more enticing rather than just a couple of draft picks.

Ty Emberson, a young, talented defenseman recently acquired from San Jose, could help fill the gap left by Ceci, costing just $950,000 against the cap. His promising analytics and previous performances might allow him to step into a more significant role this season.

If the Oilers choose not to match Holloway’s offer, they still have other options. They have brought in Vasili Podkolzin, who could replace him, or they might turn to other prospects like Matthew Savoie or even veterans Derek Ryan and Corey Perry.

All eyes are now on the Oilers as they ponder their next move, and fans are eagerly anticipating how this will impact the team’s lineup and future direction.