The Edmonton Oilers have signed Dylan Holloway, their first-round pick from the 2020 draft, to an entry-level contract, the team has announced.

I don’t think there was ever any doubt that Holloway would sign with Edmonton, but we’ve seen them not reach a deal with college players in the past. Riley Nash, a first-round pick from 2007, comes to mind. The Oilers were on the other side of this situation with Justin Schultz, who opted not to sign with the Anaheim Ducks.

Holloway spent his 2020-21 campaign with the University of Wisconsin Badgers and also represented Team Canada at the World Juniors in Edmonton. In his Sophomore season, Holloway scored 11 goals and 35 points, good for fifth in NCAA scoring. He also tallied one goal and one assist in a checking role with Team Canada.

If you were hoping that Holloway might join the Oilers down the stretch, that won’t be the case. His deal is set to begin for the 2021-22 season and he’s currently dealing with a broken thumb. There’s a chance we could see him sign a professional tryout with the Bakersfield Condors so he can get his feet wet at the professional level, though.

Given Ken Holland’s conservative approach with prospects, I would assume that Holloway begins his pro career in the AHL, but a good showing at that level in 2021-22 will have him knocking on the door to join the big-league club at some point during the season.