BREAKING NEWS: St. Louis Blues Left wing Dylan Holloway is the odd man out for the St. Louis Blues

BREAKING NEWS: St. Louis Blues Left Wing Dylan Holloway Is the Odd Man Out — Internal Roster Decisions Raise Eyebrows Ahead of 2025–26 NHL Season

St. Louis, MO – June 5, 2025

In a move that’s catching both fans and analysts off guard, St. Louis Blues left wing Dylan Holloway has reportedly become the odd man out in the team’s early roster evaluations ahead of the 2025–26 NHL season.

Once seen as a promising piece of the Blues’ next-generation core, Holloway’s standing within the organization is now uncertain. According to multiple team insiders, he has been left off projected top-nine forward lines in early training scenarios, sparking speculation that his role with the club could be reduced — or even that he may be included in offseason trade discussions.

Holloway’s Short But Impactful Blues Stint

After being acquired from the Edmonton Oilers in a midseason deal in 2024, Holloway made an immediate impression in St. Louis with his skating speed, aggressive forechecking, and physical play on the wing. Though not a prolific scorer, his high motor and versatility made him a reliable depth option during the Blues’ transitional year.

But in a league where production and upside speak louder than effort alone, Holloway now finds himself squeezed by a growing crop of young talent, including Zachary Dean, Jake Neighbours, and newly signed European standout Tomas Kral.

“He’s a good player — NHL-ready, no question,” one Western Conference scout told The Athletic. “But the Blues are clearly shifting toward a more dynamic, offensively explosive identity. That may leave Holloway behind.”

Berube’s Vision, Bannister’s System

With head coach Drew Bannister entering his first full season at the helm, there’s a strong push internally to reimagine the Blues as a faster, more skilled team — rather than the heavy, grind-it-out identity that previously defined the Craig Berube era.

Holloway, while strong on the boards and responsible defensively, may not fit the mold of the new high-tempo transition game Bannister wants to implement. His minutes declined late last season, and team insiders say he’s been used almost exclusively in fourth-line drills during informal skates this summer.

No official statement has been made by the club regarding Holloway’s status, but his camp is reportedly aware of the “competitive challenge” ahead.

Potential Trade in the Works?

With the Blues rumored to be in the market for a top-four defenseman and possibly a second-line center, Holloway could become a trade chip in the right package. His age (23), NHL experience, and entry-level cap hit make him a low-risk, high-upside option for rebuilding teams or contenders looking to add physicality to their bottom six.

Several franchises are believed to have interest, including the Chicago Blackhawks, San Jose Sharks, and Columbus Blue Jackets, all of whom are seeking young, NHL-ready forwards to support developing cores.

“If he’s available, there will be calls,” one Eastern Conference executive said. “He’s got too much raw potential to sit in the press box all year.”

Holloway Speaks Out — With Class

In a brief media appearance at a local youth hockey clinic, Holloway was asked directly about the rumors regarding his role. His answer was calm, but telling.

“I just control what I can control. I’ve been through this before — you work, you wait for your shot, and you stay ready.”

The quote was met with support from teammates and fans, many of whom believe Holloway still has untapped upside and deserves more opportunity to prove himself.

Blues Fans React

Fan reaction has been split. While some see Holloway’s limited offensive numbers as justification for reducing his role, others feel he hasn’t been given the ice time or line chemistry needed to thrive.

“He plays with grit, he’s fast, and he doesn’t make dumb mistakes,” one fan wrote on Blues Reddit. “Why are we throwing him away before he’s even had a full season?”

Another posted: “If Holloway breaks out on another team, this will be a classic Blues mistake.”

Looking Ahead

With training camp still months away and offseason trades and signings ongoing, it’s far from certain what Holloway’s fate will be. The Blues have shown they’re not afraid to make bold decisions — and this could be one of them.

The coming weeks will be critical, as general manager Doug Armstrong finalizes the roster and defines the Blues’ new identity under Coach Bannister. Whether Holloway will be part of that future — or a casualty of it — remains to be seen.

Final Thoughts

From trade acquisition to potential roster bubble, Dylan Holloway’s time in St. Louis is at a crossroads. His fate could be sealed by younger players stepping up, a front office with a bold vision, or his own ability to evolve and force his way back into the conversation.

One thing is certain: this story is far from over.

Stay tuned for updates as the Blues reshape their roster for the 2025–26 campaign.

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