The Edmonton Oilers are facing a roster crunch as they head into the 2025-26 NHL season, leading to speculation that a veteran forward might be on the move to find a better opportunity elsewhere. With a mix of new additions and returning players, the Oilers' forward depth is creating a competitive environment, and some players may find themselves on the outside looking in.
Several factors contribute to this situation. The Oilers have been actively trying to improve their forward group, adding players like Andrew Mangiapane and Isaac Howard to the roster. Mangiapane, signed as a free agent, is expected to bring scoring depth and versatility. Howard, acquired in a trade, is a skilled winger with the potential to contribute to the top lines. Additionally, prospects like Matt Savoie are pushing for a spot in the top-six, further intensifying the competition.
With these new faces arriving, some veteran forwards may see their roles diminished, or find themselves as healthy scratches. Oilers insider Bob Stauffer has suggested that Mattias Janmark could be the "odd-man-out". Janmark, with a cap hit just below $1.5 million, could be replaced by younger, cheaper options like Noah Philip or James Hamblin. While Janmark has been a reliable penalty killer, his offensive production has been limited, making him a potential candidate to be moved.
Another veteran forward whose future with the Oilers is uncertain is David Tomasek. Signed to a one-year deal, Tomasek is a 29-year-old Czech forward who is new to the NHL. While he has shown scoring ability in Europe, he will need to adjust quickly to the NHL. With limited roster spots available, Tomasek may find it difficult to secure a consistent role.
The Oilers' current cap situation also plays a role in the potential movement of a veteran forward. With limited cap space, the team may look to shed salary to create more flexibility. Moving a veteran forward with a manageable contract could free up valuable cap space that could be used to strengthen other areas of the team. As of late July 2025, the Oilers have a little over $225K in cap space.
Several teams might be interested in acquiring a veteran forward from the Oilers. Teams looking to add depth, experience, or penalty-killing ability could see value in a player like Janmark. Additionally, teams seeking a low-risk, potentially high-reward player might take a chance on Tomasek, given his offensive upside.
Ultimately, the decision to move a veteran forward will depend on several factors, including the performance of the new additions and prospects during training camp, the Oilers' cap situation, and the interest from other teams. However, with a crowded forward group and a desire to improve the team, the Oilers may offer a veteran forward a better shot at playing elsewhere.
