EDMONTON – The Edmonton Oilers made headlines on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, by signing German forward Josh Samanski to a two-year entry-level contract. This contract, which will kick in for the 2025-26 season, marks a significant step in the Oilers' efforts to bolster their roster with promising talent as they navigate the competitive landscape of the NHL.
At just 23 years old, Samanski stands tall at 6-foot-5 and brings a unique combination of size and skill to the Oilers' lineup. He spent the past four seasons primarily with the Straubing Tigers in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL), where he showcased his abilities as a key player. During the 2024-25 season, Samanski led the Tigers with an impressive 14 goals and 26 assists, totaling 40 points in 52 games. His performance not only established him as a top scorer for his team but also highlighted his potential as a valuable asset for the Oilers.
Samanski's journey through the ranks of professional hockey is noteworthy. Before his time in the DEL, he played in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Owen Sound Attack during the 2019-20 season, where he recorded four goals and 16 assists in 54 games. This experience in North America has undoubtedly contributed to his development as a player, allowing him to adapt to different styles of play.
In addition to his club success, Samanski has represented Germany on the international stage. He has competed for the German national team at two World Junior Championship tournaments and participated in the Deutschland Cup. His experience at the 2024 Spengler Cup with the Straubing Tigers further solidified his reputation as a skilled forward, where he contributed with two goals and one assist in five games.
The Oilers' decision to sign Samanski comes as they look to enhance their depth at center, especially as they face challenges related to the salary cap. With players like Samanski in the pipeline, the organization aims to build a competitive team capable of making a deep playoff run.
In a separate but equally significant move, the Oilers also announced the signing of forward David Tomasek to a one-year contract valued at US$1.2 million. Tomasek, who played last season in the Swedish Elite League, led the league in points with 57 and assists with 33 while ranking third in goals with 24. His impressive performance helped Farjestad BK secure its first regular-season league title since 2018-19, and he played a crucial role in Czechia's gold medal victory at the 2024 World Hockey Championship.
Both signings reflect the Oilers' commitment to enhancing their roster with players who have proven themselves in competitive leagues. The addition of Samanski, in particular, highlights the team's strategy of scouting talent from various leagues, including Europe, where many skilled players are looking to make their mark in the NHL.
As the Oilers prepare for the upcoming season, fans will be eager to see how these new signings integrate into the team and contribute to their quest for success. With a mix of young talent and experienced players, the Oilers are positioning themselves for a promising future.
Looking ahead, the Oilers will return to action on Thursday against the San Jose Sharks, where they will look to build on their momentum and continue their pursuit of a playoff spot. The excitement surrounding the team is palpable, especially with the recent acquisitions that could shape their performance in the coming seasons.
In conclusion, the Edmonton Oilers' signing of Josh Samanski and David Tomasek signals a proactive approach to roster building as they aim to compete at the highest level. With promising prospects like Samanski joining the ranks, the Oilers are setting the stage for an exciting future in the NHL.
