The Edmonton Oilers entered this offseason with clear ambitions. After several deep playoff pushes, management knows the window to win is open right now. Adding depth at forward was one of their main goals, but as training camps approach, free agency hasn’t gone as well as Edmonton hoped.
Are the Edmonton Oilers Still Struggling to Land Top Talent?
The Oilers made a move this offseason to add depth at forward, but the attempt did not go as planned. According to The Athletic, the team approached unrestricted free agent Jack Roslovic with an offer. The 28-year-old forward, however, turned it down, leaving Edmonton still searching for answers.
Roslovic spent last season with the Carolina Hurricanes, scoring 22 goals and 39 points in 81 games. Despite his solid numbers, he has yet to secure a new contract as training camps get underway.
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The forward, who recently switched agents to Justin Duberman, has been clear about seeking term on his next contract.
“He’d like to get term on his next deal – more than one year. That may not be easy to do this late into things, with teams mostly filled out,” NHL analyst Pierre LeBrun wrote.
That preference could have complicated things for the Oilers, whose salary cap space and short-term needs may not align with a long commitment. Roslovic currently remains unsigned, and Edmonton continues to monitor the market.
Where the Edmonton Oilers Stand After Roslovic’s Decision
The rejection comes as the Oilers are already facing questions about their ability to attract talent. A recent player survey highlighted that Edmonton was not listed among the NHL’s preferred trade destinations. Teams like the Florida Panthers, Dallas Stars, Vegas Golden Knights, and New York Rangers were viewed far more favorably.
Analysts noted that market perception has long been an obstacle for the Oilers, with harsh winters, smaller market appeal, and heavy media scrutiny often cited as deterrents.
It isn’t the first time the Oilers have encountered resistance in the player market. In 2015, they ranked near the top of “least desired” destinations in league reports.
Even in 2023, insiders suggested Edmonton was still fighting no-trade clauses when attempting to make deals. A strong playoff run in 2024 helped soften that view, but this year’s poll suggests challenges remain.
As of now, Roslovic’s future is undecided, and the Oilers’ search for roster depth continues. Whether the team can overcome perception challenges will depend less on pitches and more on results. Winning, it seems, is still the only guarantee to change minds.
