The Edmonton Oilers are heading into the 2025-26 NHL season with a revamped forward lineup, hoping to finally achieve their Stanley Cup aspirations after consecutive Finals losses. While the usual suspects like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Zach Hyman are expected to lead the charge, an unexpected X-factor has emerged that could force the Oilers' hand when constructing their opening night roster: David Tomášek.
Tomášek, a 29-year-old Czech forward, was signed as a free agent to a one-year, $1.2 million deal after an impressive season in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), where he led the league with 57 points (25 goals, 32 assists) in 47 games. The right-shot center brings a unique skillset that could address some of the Oilers' weaknesses from last year's playoff run, particularly in the faceoff circle. Tomášek won 58% of his faceoffs in the SHL, including a league-best 55% in the defensive zone. In comparison, Mattias Janmark, a potential roster casualty, managed just 40% on 239 draws last season.
However, Tomášek's arrival comes amidst a crowded forward group that already includes new additions like Andrew Mangiapane, Curtis Lazar, and Isaac Howard. With limited roster spots and salary cap space, accommodating Tomášek may necessitate a trade or other roster move. Janmark, who carries a $1.45 million cap hit and had limited offensive production last season, could be a likely candidate to be moved. Several players from last year's roster, including Evander Kane and Viktor Arvidsson, have been mentioned as potential salary cap dumps.
Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch has indicated that he would like to give Tomášek key minutes this season. Oilers insider Bob Stauffer has called Tomášek "the team's biggest wild card," while The Athletic's Jonathan Willis has highlighted his potential impact in areas where the Oilers struggled during last year's playoffs.
The Oilers' development camp, which took place in late June and early July, provided an opportunity for prospects and recent signings like Tomášek to showcase their abilities. Matt Savoie, a top prospect who played four NHL games with the Oilers in 2024-25, and Sam O'Reilly, the Oilers' second-best prospect, were among the 27 players participating in the camp. The full 2025 draft class, including Tommy Lafreniere, David Lewandowski, and Aidan Park, also attended. Recent free-agent signings Quinn Hutson, Viljami Marjala, and Josh Samanski were also present.
If Knoblauch intends to give Tomášek an opening-night roster spot alongside fellow newcomers Ike Howard and Matt Savoie, tough decisions will need to be made. Given Tomášek's age and contract status, the Oilers can't afford to keep him on the sidelines. He'll likely get a real opportunity in the middle six, especially if injuries occur. While he may not offer the same potential as someone like Howard, Tomášek is a player the Oilers need to evaluate quickly. He either performs this season, or he's gone. Whether Tomášek ends up centering the third line or pushing for more ice time, Edmonton needs to determine if he's NHL-ready.
Ultimately, Tomášek's performance in training camp and preseason will determine whether he can force his way onto the Oilers' opening night roster and potentially alter the team's plans. His unique skillset and potential to address key weaknesses could make him an invaluable asset, but the Oilers will need to carefully manage their roster and salary cap to make it work.
