The Edmonton Oilers have announced on Friday that forward Dylan Holloway has signed a three-year entry-level contract. Holloway was selected 14th overall by the Oilers in the 2020 NHL Draft. He has played the past two seasons for the Wisconsin Badgers, of the University of Wisconsin, in the NCAA.
The #Oilers have signed forward Dylan Holloway to a three-year entry-level contract!
The 2020 14th-overall pick just completed his second @NCAAIceHockey season with @BadgerMHockey, tallying 35 points in 23 games. #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/CarpNl7ED3
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) April 16, 2021
Dylan Holloway Signs Entry-Level Contract With Edmonton Oilers
Holloway had a very impressive sophomore season with the Badgers. In 23 games, he scored 11 goals and 35 points, which was an update from his freshman season where he scored eight goals and 17 points in 35 games. His 2020-21 season was shortened after being selected to play for Canada in the World Juniors Championship. Not only did he help Team Canada win a silver medal in the tournament, but he was also one of the top-10 finalists for the Hobey Baker Memorial Award.
Many were doubtful on whether he would sign his entry-level contract with the Oilers now, especially after he injured his thumb near the end of the Badgers’ season. However, the young player has decided two seasons in the NCAA were enough. Of course, this is very welcomed news for all the Edmonton fans.
What This Means For The Future
Even after signing his ECL, it’ll be some time before Holloway sees the NHL ice. The terms of the contract are not clear on whether it starts this season or the next. If it begins in the 2020-21 season, he’s not eligible to play for Edmonton this season but could be sent to their AHL affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors on an amateur tryout.
Still, the future does look bright for him whenever he slides into the lineup. His development from his freshman year to sophomore is clear to anyone who has watched him. Holloway has always been talented but his dominance and skills were put in the spotlight this past season. Considered by many one of the most reliable players on the Badgers roster, the Canadian player will likely shine when he enters the NHL for good.
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