Oilers GM Ken Holland ready to take on new role with Chicago Blackhawks: Report
Edmonton Oilers general manager Ken Holland is reportedly considering going to the Chicago Blackhawks. NHL insider Scottie Upshall tweeted that Holland could be on his way to the Windy City.
"Source telling me that Ken Holland could be on his way to the Chicago Blackhawks. Position to be determined. Could this be the beginning of building new dynasty there in Chi town? They have the cap space and the draft picks! We will see how this plays out…," Upshall's post read.
The Edmonton Oilers narrowly missed their sixth Stanley Cup win after losing to the Florida Panthers 4-3 in the Final. They were chasing their first championship win in 34 years.
Holland's five-year, $25 million contract with the Oilers ends on June 30. There is no indication of an extension. Owner Daryl Katz and CEO Jeff Jackson have not suggested extending his contract.
Holland, 68, has kept quiet about his plans. He was hired in 2019 to make the Oilers a Stanley Cup contender. Under Holland's leadership, the team made the playoffs in all five seasons, a notable improvement from the previous two seasons when they missed the playoffs.
They reached the Western Conference Final in 2022 and were one win away from lifting the Stanley Cup this year.
TSN’s Darren Dreger previously commented on Ken Holland's situation
TSN’s Darren Dreger previously reported that Holland isn’t expected to attend the NHL Draft in Las Vegas this coming weekend.
“I believe there’s a role for Ken Holland moving forward in Edmonton… If he wants it,” Dreger wrote. “His situation will be clarified within a few days. As of right now, indications are that he will not be at the Draft in Vegas.”
The idea of Holland joining the Blackhawks is intriguing. Chicago has ample cap space and several draft picks including two in Round 1. They are well-positioned to rebuild and succeed. Holland's proven ability to transform teams into contenders could be just what they need.