The Edmonton Oilers are weighing their options regarding forward Jack Roslovic, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. Despite a solid regular season, Roslovic's playoff performance has raised questions about his future with the team.
Regular Season Success, Playoff Struggles
Roslovic, 29, posted 21 goals and 36 points in the 2025-26 regular season, including 17 goals and 30 points at even strength. He played primarily as a top-nine forward and logged the seventh-most minutes among Oilers forwards. However, his production dropped significantly in the playoffs, where he managed just one assist in six games against the Anaheim Ducks. This continues a troubling trend for Roslovic, who has only three goals and 18 points in 51 career playoff games across stints with Winnipeg, the New York Rangers, Carolina, and Edmonton.
Scout's Perspective
One longtime pro scout offered a blunt assessment: "If you look up inconsistency, there's a picture of Jack Roslovic." While acknowledging Roslovic's skill set, the scout noted his inability to produce when it matters most. "Would I pay him $3.5 million a year for two or three years? Not a chance. At $1.5 million or $2 million for one year? Yeah, to keep him hungry." Roslovic signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Oilers last fall, a move the scout called a "slam-dunk" at the time.
Kapanen Emerges as Preferred Option
The Oilers appear more inclined to retain fellow UFA winger Kasperi Kapanen, who is seeking a three-year deal at $2.75 million per season. Kapanen, also 29, has struggled with consistency but offers speed, physicality, and penalty-killing ability. More importantly, he has produced in the playoffs, recording six points (four goals) against Anaheim this year and 25 points in 56 career postseason games. In contrast, Roslovic averaged 13 minutes per game against the Ducks without generating offense.
Cap Constraints
With seven players accounting for $63 million of next season's $104 million salary cap, the Oilers have limited flexibility. Roslovic's playoff shortcomings make it unlikely the team will invest significant term or money in him. The scout predicted Roslovic might be a "one and done" in Edmonton, potentially moving to his sixth NHL team.
Looking Elsewhere
If the Oilers seek outside help, veteran forward Jaden Schwartz could be an option. Schwartz, 34, has 64 points in 102 career playoff games and a Stanley Cup ring from his time with St. Louis. However, he missed 32 games this season due to four separate injuries, raising concerns about durability. The Oilers may also explore internal solutions rather than overpaying in a lukewarm 2026 UFA forward class, where Bobby McMann is expected to be a top-tier option at around $5.5 million annually.
