Oilers have reportedly made their decision: Set to lose two former first-rounder

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Felip Gosselin
August 19, 2024 (8:54 PM)

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Six days ago, the St. Louis Blues boldly signed Edmonton Oilers' Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway to offer sheets.

Today, it appears the Oilers might have decided on these players. Broberg and Holloway have been removed from the Oilers' official online roster, sparking significant buzz among hockey fans eager for news on the offer sheets. However, it's important to note that the NHL has been removing all restricted free agents (RFAs) from team rosters today as part of a broader update.

Despite the roster changes, the Oilers face a deadline of just one day to match the offers. If they don't, Broberg and Holloway will join the Blues on two-year contracts, with Broberg at $4.58M and Holloway at $2.29M annually-salaries notably higher than the Oilers initially planned for the young talents.

In recent days, the Oilers have made several moves to free up cap space and secure replacements for the two players. Vasily Podkolzin, recently acquired, could fill a role in the Oilers' bottom six. At the same time, Ty Emberson, a player with a solid history under coach Kris Knoblauch, appears to be a promising addition. Should the Oilers opt not to match the offer sheets, they will receive second and third-round draft picks from St. Louis as compensation.

If Edmonton lets both RFAs leave and places Evander Kane on LTIR to start the season, they would be just under the salary cap with some room to spare. Oilers insider Jason Gregor has already speculated on the potential opening night roster. While losing Broberg and Holloway may sting long-term, both players seek better financial deals and opportunities elsewhere. The Oilers remain a strong contender for the StanlHolloway'st fans will be closely watching Broberg and Holloway's careers as they likely move on from Edmonton.

Credit: Oilers Daily
Edmonton Oilers appeared to have leaked decision on offer sheets