In a bold move, St. Louis Blues’ general manager Doug Armstrong made headlines by tendering offer sheets to Edmonton Oilers’ Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway. This unexpected move sent shockwaves through the hockey world, especially during the typically quiet month of August.
While Broberg and Holloway may not be superstars just yet, both having seen time in the AHL as recently as 2023-24, Armstrong’s decision to present offer sheets to players from the same team was a strategic and aggressive move. The fact that the Oilers now have seven days to match the offers adds an element of suspense to the situation.
Armstrong’s earlier statement about being open to exploring offer sheets demonstrated his willingness to shake things up in order to improve the Blues’ roster. This approach is in line with his decision to step down as GM in two years, paving the way for Alexander Steen to take over.
The contracts offered to Broberg and Holloway were carefully calculated, with the salary figures strategically set to require second and third-round draft picks as compensation. This move was clearly intended to put pressure on the Oilers, who are currently over the NHL’s salary cap for the upcoming season.
While it remains to be seen whether the Oilers will match the offers, one thing is certain: Armstrong’s decision to tender offer sheets to two promising young players has injected a jolt of energy into the offseason, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as they await the final outcome.