Dylan Holloway proved that he needs to be a Blue for the long-term

One of the main storylines for the St. Louis Blues was how the young players would perform. One of these players that everyone was watching was Dylan Holloway. After signing an offer sheet with the Blues, he put in a strong 2024-25, racking up 26 goals and 37 assists for 63 points in 77 games. Although his season was cut short by an oblique injury, everyone was eager to see how he would follow up.

Through four games in 2025-26, Holloway has looked decent on the ice. The big moment of his season came on Wednesday when he sniped a shot from the left circle into the back of the net for his first goal of the season. This goal was something Holloway was overdue for. With how he's played to start the season, he's proven that he should be a core piece of the Blues in the future.

How Holloway played himself into the long term plans of the Blues

Although his goal on Wednesday is his only point of the season, he has produced in other ways. He has recorded a team high, 16 hits, and has taken the second most shots with 10. This shows he's one of the main contributors to the Blues' offensive attack while also bringing grit and physicality to the top six. This allows the Blues' top six to run the offense, but prevents other teams from bullying them and being more physical.

This style of play has become more popular in the NHL over the last few seasons. Ever since the rise of the Florida Panthers, teams have sought elite offensive players who are also not afraid to get physical. It's a play style that translates well to the playoffs. The NHL playoffs are a completely different game from the regular season. It's a much grittier, more physical game. Thus, players who lack physicality often underperform and become invisible during the playoffs.

Holloway is a player who won't "disappear" in the playoffs. He'll step up to meet the physical demands of the playoffs while still producing on offense. Having that type of player will improve the entire line. Holloway can act as the "enforcer" on the line. He'll be the one to take and deliver the hits, creating space and openings for guys like Robert Thomas and Jake Neighbours.

If there is one thing that Holloway needs to improve, it's his ability to stay on the ice. He has yet to play a full 82-game season over his four years in the league. Granted, part of the reason is his constantly being called up and sent down, but injuries are also a significant factor. If he can prove he can play a full season and be a consistent contributor, he'll lock his spot in the top six.

While it's only been a few games, Holloway is turning heads with his performance. The Blues may have found one of the key pieces of their next winning core.