The Edmonton Oilers have plenty of reasons to be pleased with the defensive development of center Josh Samanski. The 24-year-old German-born forward has shown remarkable maturity and situational awareness, making him a valuable asset for the team's bottom six.
Background and Journey
Born in Erding, Germany, in 2002, Samanski stands 6'2" and weighs 195 pounds. He began his North American career in the OJHL and OHL with Brantford and Owen Sound before spending five seasons with the Straubing Tigers in Germany. Despite never being drafted, he signed a two-year, $975,000 contract with the Oilers and reported to Bakersfield of the AHL.
AHL and NHL Performance
In 39 AHL games, Samanski recorded 7 goals and 21 assists for 28 points. Recalled by the Oilers, he played 24 regular-season NHL games, tallying 2 goals and 2 assists with a plus-2 rating. His average ice time was 10:34. At 5-on-5, his Corsi was 49.9% and Fenwick 51%. In the playoffs, he dressed for five games, contributing 1 goal and 1 assist.
Defensive Acumen
Samanski's defensive game stood out immediately. His hockey sense and coaching in Germany have given him excellent situational awareness. He knows when to make safe, simple plays, a trait often seen in older players. He earned penalty-killing duties and improved his faceoff percentage to 48.2%. While not overly physical (27 hits in 24 games), his size and strength are evident in the defensive zone and along the boards.
Samanski moves well at NHL speed, especially for a player of his stature. He is not exceptionally fast but is not slow either.
International Experience
Samanski also gained valuable international experience. He recorded 1 goal and 1 assist in 5 games at the Olympics alongside Leon Draisaitl for Germany, and 2 goals and 5 assists in 7 games at the IIHF World Ice Hockey Championships.
Future Outlook
Samanski has one year remaining on his contract. He is a restricted free agent and waivers exempt, which makes him an easy, no-risk option for roster spots. He shows strong potential as a dependable bottom-six center or winger. While he may lack the offensive skills for a third-line role, his defensive abilities are beyond his years. In the NHL, a fourth line that breaks even is a win.
