Dylan Holloway’s Next Contract: Expectations and Comparables

As the Edmonton Oilers navigate their salary cap challenges, one critical task is securing a new contract for restricted free agent (RFA) Dylan Holloway. Holloway, a promising young forward, has shown potential and is a crucial part of the Oilers' future plans. However, it seems the Oilers are prioritizing Leon Draisaitl's extension, which could influence the timing and value of Holloway's deal.

Drafted 14th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, Holloway has spent the first few years of his professional career developing his game and demonstrating his skills. His blend of speed, skill, and physicality is highly valued by the Oilers. As he enters negotiations for his next contract, examining similar players can help estimate his likely contract value.

Potential Contract Value

Considering Holloway’s potential, his next contract will likely be in the range of $1 million to $2 million annually. This range is typical for young players on bridge deals of two to three years, allowing teams to maintain flexibility while giving players a chance to prove themselves and earn more substantial contracts later.

Comparables

Several players at similar stages in their careers provide insight into what Holloway’s next contract might look like. Here are a few comparables closer to the $1 million to $2 million range:

1. Morgan Geekie (Boston Bruins): Geekie, a promising center, signed a two-year, $4.0 million contract ($2.0 million AAV) with Boston Bruins. Geekie’s deal represents a cautious approach for young players showing promise but needing to establish more consistency.
2. Nick Paul (Tampa Bay Lightning): Paul signed a two-year, $2.7 million contract ($1.35 million AAV) after his entry-level deal with the Ottawa Senators. Paul's contract showcases a modest yet optimistic valuation for a young forward proving his worth in the NHL. Paul now is on a 7 year, $22.05 million deal.
3. Klim Kostin (San Jose Sharks): Kostin, another young forward, signed a two-year, $2 million contract. Kostin’s contract highlights a scenario where a player with potential secures a short-term, relatively higher-value deal to prove himself further.

Strategic Considerations

The timing of Holloway’s contract negotiation is crucial. The Oilers appear focused on extending Leon Draisaitl, whose contract status will significantly impact the team's salary cap. Once Draisaitl's future is determined, the Oilers can better assess their cap space and finalize Holloway’s deal.

Dylan Holloway’s next contract with the Edmonton Oilers will be a topic for fans and analysts. With comparables like Morgan Geekie, Nicholas Paul, Klim Kostin, and Julien Gauthier, it’s likely that Holloway will secure a deal in the range of $1 million to $2 million annually. The Oilers’ strategic focus on extending Leon Draisaitl first will shape the financial framework, setting the stage for Holloway’s contract, which will reflect his potential and future contributions to the team.