Jack Roslovic #98 of the Carolina Hurricanes battles Mattias Ekholm #14 of the Edmonton Oilers for the puck during the second period of the game at Lenovo Center on March 01, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Edmonton Journal
The Edmonton Oilers have made a significant addition to their lineup by signing veteran forward Jack Roslovic. According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, Roslovic, 28, was the top remaining free agent in the NHL. The move comes after Roslovic initially turned down the Oilers earlier in the free agency period.
Roslovic agreed to a one-year contract worth $1.5 million. The deal follows recent changes in his representation, after failing to secure a new contract during the summer. Earlier reports suggested Roslovic had been seeking a $3 million annual salary, but the Oilers managed to finalize a lower-value deal to bring him on board.
Friedman tweeted, “There’s word tonight that they have re-engaged with Jack Roslovic, who they talked with around July 1. Roslovic, of course, is unsigned. But I’ve heard the Oilers have re-engaged with him, and we’ll see where this goes tonight.” Minutes later, he confirmed, “He’s signing here. Roslovic is going to sign in Edmonton.”
A Boost for the Oilers’ Depth
Sportsnet analyst Colby Armstrong highlighted the strategic value of this signing. “This is what makes me excited about the Oilers. If I were a complementary player—someone like Mangiapane, Isaac Howard, or Jack Roslovic—playing in Edmonton is appealing. It’s a great place to be, as we’ve seen over the past few years.”
Roslovic brings solid even-strength scoring to Edmonton’s lineup. In the 2024-25 season, he produced 2.1 points per 60 minutes, ranking 65th among all NHL forwards. He scored 22 goals and contributed 17 assists in 81 games for the Carolina Hurricanes. His versatility and scoring touch make him a valuable addition to the Oilers’ forward corps.
Forward Group Now Crowded
The signing raises questions about Edmonton’s forward depth. With Roslovic in the mix, newcomers such as David Tomasek and Ike Howard may face increased competition for ice time. Veteran Mattias Janmark, currently sidelined with an injury, could also find his roster spot uncertain once Roslovic gets up to speed.
Despite the crowded forward ranks, Roslovic’s arrival adds experience and proven scoring ability. His presence could provide the Oilers with additional options in key situations, especially on the power play and in top-six forward roles.
A Smart Strategic Move
The Oilers’ decision to sign Roslovic reflects a focused approach to enhancing their roster without overcommitting financially. While Roslovic may not have secured his initial $3 million ask, the one-year contract allows both player and team flexibility. It also positions Edmonton as a desirable destination for other complementary forwards seeking to elevate their game alongside established stars.
With the NHL season approaching, Roslovic will likely integrate quickly into Edmonton’s lineup. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how the veteran’s skill set meshes with the team’s core group. For the Oilers, this signing is more than just a roster addition—it’s a statement of intent as they aim to strengthen their scoring depth and remain competitive in the coming season.
