The Edmonton Oilers are facing some important roster decisions as they approach full health, with several players currently on injured reserve. Key players like Jake Walman, Noah Philp, and Kasperi Kapanen are working their way back into the lineup. While the team has performed well despite these absences, the Oilers will need to make strategic moves to accommodate returning players.
One recent move involved activating Jack Roslovic from injured reserve. To make room, Connor Clattenburg was placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) after suffering a high-stick injury, and Quinn Hutson was sent back to the AHL. Roslovic's return is a significant boost, as he has proven to be a valuable offensive player, contributing 10 goals and 18 points in 23 games. His presence enhances the Oilers' scoring depth, particularly when playing alongside Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl. Hutson, despite being sent down, made a positive impression during his brief NHL stint, even scoring his first NHL goal.
When the Oilers' roster is fully healthy, some tough decisions will need to be made regarding forward depth. David Tomasek and Mattias Janmark may find themselves on the outside looking in. Tomasek offers offensive skills, while Janmark is a defensive-minded player. However, with a full roster, there might not be a place for them in the lineup. Tomasek could benefit from a fresh start with another team, as there was previous interest in him before he signed with the Oilers. Janmark could also attract interest from teams seeking defensive depth and penalty-killing expertise. Releasing both players could free up cap space and create roster spots for others. Matthew Savoie and Adam Henrique are strong penalty killers, potentially making Janmark expendable. Tomasek's offensive abilities are not being fully utilized in a bottom-six role, making him a potential trade candidate.
Ike Howard and Quinn Hutson have performed well this season. Hutson has excelled in the AHL and impressed during his NHL call-up. Howard's performance has also been noteworthy.
Other potential moves involve activating Tristan Jarry, Jake Walman and Jack Roslovic while sending down Connor Ingram, and David Tomasek. A decision will also need to be made on Kasperi Kapanen, with the possibility of sending down either Clattenburg, Curtis Lazar or Quinn Hutson to make room for him, depending on their performance.
The Oilers have several injured players, including Jake Walman, Noah Philp, Connor Clattenburg, Tristan Jarry, and Kasperi Kapanen. Despite these injuries, players like Hutson and Jones have stepped up, providing offense and playing a physical, bottom-six style of hockey.
With players returning from injury, competition for roster spots will be fierce. While Walman, Roslovic, and Jarry are expected to reclaim their regular roles immediately, others may have a harder time finding their way back into the lineup. Clattenburg and Philp have played well, but players like Hutson, Jones, Savoie and Lazar are also making strong contributions. Kapanen's situation is complex, as he has been a valuable addition, bringing energy and contributing to the penalty kill. As the Oilers move closer to full health, General Manager Ken Holland will have to make some difficult choices to optimize the roster for a playoff push.
