Quoting: oilsince95
Yes Holland steering the ship makes this much less likely. An AHL stint is definitely more likely, and would also be great.
I agree Makar was a rare talent where this made sense. But if Holloway keeps up anywhere near this pace...it will be pretty historic. I really wasn't expecting this level of offense, he's obviously got quite the extra gear.
Makar also played 2 years of college post draft though, not the same situation exactly.
I'd look at the way Holland treated Larkin:
- played draft+1 in NCAA
- signed his ELC May 21 after U of M season was over
- played in the AHL playoffs immediately (Detroit wasn't an option as they didn't qualify for the postseason)
- made the NHL roster out of training camp in the fall
Oh, and Larkin's NCAA season was less impressive than Holloway's, too:
DL: 35, 15-32-47 +18 (1.34 P/GP)
DH: 12, 7-16-23 +10 (1.92 P/GP)
A few other things to consider:
- Holloway is physically stronger than Larkin was at the same age
- Holloway has completed his 2nd year at the NCAA level due to a late birthday - Larkin only had one
- Holloway is a more complete player as regards defensive ability, at least by reputation, than Larkin was
I don't think Holland will keep Holloway back if he feels Holloway is ready to help the NHL team. Of course, he'll have to weigh in (a) the quarantine period for Holloway to even come to Canada and (b) the Oilers position in the standings, maybe that influences him to send Holloway to Bakersfield for the AHL playoffs instead.