Paul Bissonnette slams Oilers’ costly blunder for letting $9M star go: “What the hell is going on?”

The Edmonton Oilers made what seemed like a smart financial decision last offseason, choosing not to match the St. Louis Blues’ offer sheets for Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway. But now, as both players thrive in St. Louis, Oilers fans and analysts are left questioning whether this was a disastrous misstep. Could letting go of these rising stars come back to haunt Edmonton in the playoffs?


The Oilers opted not to match the offer sheets extended to Broberg and Holloway by the St. Louis Blues. Broberg, a 23-year-old defenseman, signed a two-year, $9.16 million deal, while Holloway inked a two-year, $4.59 million contract. With the Oilers already balancing hefty contracts for superstars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, they chose to let both players go rather than stretch their cap space.
At first glance, it appeared to be a pragmatic decision. But as the current season unfolds, it’s clear that the Oilers may have underestimated the value of these young talents. Broberg has emerged as a standout defenseman in St. Louis, even outperforming some of Edmonton’s key blueliners in pivotal moments. Holloway, on the other hand, has taken his offensive game to another level, proving to be a dynamic force in the Blues' lineup.

Holloway and Broberg have silenced any doubts about their potential. The former first-round picks have played a crucial role in the Blues’ playoff push, with Holloway amassing 58 points (23 goals, 35 assists) in 72 games and Broberg contributing 23 points (seven goals, 16 assists) in 59 games. Their stellar performances have propelled St. Louis into the final wildcard spot in the Western Conference, positioning them as a dangerous team heading into the postseason.
Former NHLer Paul Bissonnette recently weighed in on the decision, questioning why Edmonton would willingly part ways with young, physically dominant players after a deep playoff run. His concerns resonate with Oilers fans who now watch Broberg and Holloway excel elsewhere while their team struggles to find the same spark as last season.

The Oilers are still a formidable team and remain on track for a playoff berth, but their current roster lacks the depth and youthful energy that Broberg and Holloway provided. Could this move ultimately cost them a Stanley Cup run? With injuries and fatigue becoming factors down the stretch, Edmonton may struggle to keep pace with deeper, well-rounded contenders. If St. Louis continues their surge, Edmonton’s front office may have to answer some tough questions about why they let two rising stars slip away.
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For now, all eyes will be on St. Louis as they put their six-game winning streak on the line. If Broberg and Holloway continue their dominant play, this could be a decision that Oilers fans won’t soon forget and one that haunts the franchise for years to come.