As the 2023-24 NHL season draws to a close, the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers continue their battle for the Stanley Cup. Fans of teams that have already been eliminated are likely watching with a mix of envy and what-if scenarios. The Stanley Cup Playoffs are often where players make a name for themselves or seize the moment for a breakout performance.
For the Oilers, Dylan Holloway, the 14th overall pick in the 2020 draft, has emerged as a promising middle-six forward with a high ceiling. After spending much of the last two seasons on the fourth line with subpar linemates, Holloway recently had a standout game, scoring two goals and an assist in the Oilers’ 8-1 win over the Panthers, forcing a Game 5. Playing alongside Leon Draisaitl, Holloway has tallied five goals and seven points in 22 playoff games, compared to just nine goals in 89 regular-season games.
Despite his progress and improved linemates, Holloway still averages under 12 minutes of ice time per game. He played just 5:24 in the Oilers’ Game 3 loss, his lowest of the postseason. Known for his speed, as demonstrated by his first goal in Game 4, he has shown he can compete with higher-quality forwards despite limited opportunities.
Could Holloway be a similar acquisition to Kirby Dach or Alex Newhook for the Montreal Canadiens? Both Dach and Newhook, who had struggled with their previous teams, achieved career highs in their first season with Montreal. Holloway has had a comparable journey, with limited chances to showcase his skills until this postseason. His average ice time increased from 9:35 in 2022-23 to 11:22 this past season. After dealing with injuries, he is now healthy and proving his worth on a contender, making him a potential low-cost target for the Canadiens.
Holloway also played at the University of Wisconsin with Canadiens star Cole Caufield, who won the Hobey Baker Award in 2020-21. Holloway recorded 35 points in 23 games that season, ranking third in points per game nationally.
The Canadiens are looking to add a top-six forward, with options like Martin Necas, Trevor Zegras, Patrik Laine, or Nikolaj Ehlers available via trade. Holloway, however, would be a more affordable option and, while it’s uncertain if he’ll reach his potential as a top-six forward, his strong playoff performance is promising. Given his injury history and limited opportunities, he might not command a high price — possibly a similar reclamation project-type player along with a draft pick or B-level prospect.
While the Oilers may choose to keep him after his impressive playoff run, Holloway could be a smart, low-cost addition for the Canadiens, potentially reuniting him with Caufield and adding depth to the team’s rebuild.
