Edmonton Oilers GM Stan Bowman explained why the team didn’t match the St. Louis Blues’ offer sheets for promising prospects Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway, emphasizing that the decision was financially driven, not performance-related.
Bowman noted that while the Oilers could have fit Broberg’s $4.6 million average annual value (AAV) into their salary cap—especially after trading Cody Ceci to the San Jose Sharks—Broberg’s salary would have significantly exceeded that of their top defenseman, Evan Bouchard, which was deemed unsustainable.
Holloway, who was offered a $2.29 million AAV by the Blues, also posed a financial challenge given the Oilers’ focus on future cap space needs, particularly for upcoming contracts for stars Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid.
Bowman outlined that the team had several options but chose not to match the offers to maintain long-term financial viability.
The Oilers instead opted to acquire younger players and draft picks, providing more flexibility for future challenges, including managing cap space for key players.
The decision left the Oilers with some gaps, particularly on defense, but Bowman emphasized the importance of integrating young talent into the roster.
The team’s current situation has left them just under the salary cap, with further decisions pending, such as the potential placement of Evander Kane on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) due to a sports hernia.
Despite the changes, Bowman remains optimistic about the Oilers’ future, focusing on the need to balance financial constraints with maintaining a competitive team.
