The Edmonton Oilers' roster is facing a squeeze with the addition of veteran forward Jack Roslovic. The 28-year-old signed a one-year, $1.5 million contract with the Oilers after remaining unsigned throughout the summer. This signing provides a low-risk gamble for the Oilers, adding depth and experience to their lineup. However, it also creates difficult decisions for coach Kris Knoblauch, especially with players returning from injured reserve.

Several Oilers players have been placed on injured reserve (IR) recently, including Mattias Janmark and Jake Walman. Zach Hyman is on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) and is expected to be out until at least November. To fill these roster spots, the Oilers called up rookies David Tomasek and Isaac Howard. However, with Janmark and Walman potentially returning soon, and Hyman expected back in November, the Oilers will need to make roster adjustments.

Knoblauch acknowledged the challenge, stating that the team currently has more than the typical 13 forwards and seven defensemen on the roster. He indicated that "very difficult decisions" will need to be made regarding at least one defenseman and probably two forwards.

One player who could be on the bubble is rookie Isaac Howard. The 21-year-old winger was acquired in an offseason trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning and has played in the Oilers' first two games. While Howard hasn't played poorly, he also hasn't made a significant impact, logging limited minutes on the fourth line.

Howard's situation is further complicated by the unique clause in Roslovic's contract. Roslovic's deal includes a full no-move clause through October, essentially guaranteeing his spot on the roster for the first month. After November 1st, the no-move clause converts to a four-team trade list, giving the Oilers flexibility if the fit isn't working. November 1st is also around the time Hyman is expected to return from LTIR, compounding the roster crunch.

Sending Howard to the AHL's Bakersfield Condors might be the most logical solution. Unlike some other potential roster casualties, Howard doesn't require waivers to be assigned to the AHL. This means the Oilers can send him down without the risk of another team claiming him.

Roslovic brings versatility to the Oilers' lineup, with the ability to play center or wing. Last season with the Carolina Hurricanes, he scored 22 goals. Some suggest that Roslovic may get a chance to play alongside Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Others have speculated he could start on a line with Adam Henrique and David Tomasek.

Ultimately, the Oilers' decision will hinge on finding the best balance between experience, potential, and roster flexibility. The team is aiming for a deep playoff run, and Knoblauch will need to optimize the lineup to achieve that goal. While the addition of Roslovic bolsters the Oilers' depth, it also means a young player like Howard might find himself on the outside looking in, at least for the time being.