The Edmonton Oilers have come to an agreement with their top draft pick, inking Philip Broberg to a three-year entry-level contract. Broberg was selected eighth overall at the recent NHL Entry Draft.
It is still not exactly clear where the 18-year old Broberg will spend the 2019-20 season, as he could either go back to Sweden for another year of development or come to North America to play in the CHL. The Hamilton Bulldogs of the OHL own his CHL rights, and the Oilers have hinted that is where they’d rather have him spend next season. The 6’4″ defenseman would likely get huge minutes in all situations playing for the Bulldogs, something he may not get so easily in Sweden.
Regardless of where he plays next season, the Oilers are hoping from big things from the smooth-skating defenseman. Broberg has all the physical attributes to become a dominating presence in the NHL, though some have questioned his decision making at times. Oilers GM Ken Holland knows he must turn out a quality product this year in Edmonton and battle for a playoff spot, but rushing Broberg through the system would be a mistake.
His contract will slide forward as long as he does not play in ten NHL games this season.