The Edmonton Oilers organization appears to be developing a German connection with not one, but two left-shot centers from Deutschland making waves in their system.
From German Leagues to North American Pro Hockey
While comparisons to superstar Leon Draisaitl would be premature, 23-year-old Josh Samanski brings his own unique package of skills and potential to the Oilers' prospect pipeline. The towering 6-foot-5 center recently made the transition from Germany's Deutsche Eishockey Liga, where he led the Straubing Tigers with 40 points in 52 games last season.
Samanski's return to North American hockey marks a homecoming of sorts, having previously played two years of junior hockey in Ontario before developing his game overseas. His professional debut in North America began with training camp appearances alongside highly-touted prospects including Hobey Baker award winner Isaac Howard and former Buffalo Sabres first-round pick Matt Savoie.
Adapting to the North American Game
The adjustment from European to North American professional hockey has presented challenges for the young German forward. Bakersfield Condors head coach Colin Chaulk highlighted the stylistic differences between the leagues.
"It is very different," Chaulk noted. "They play a little bit more of a possession game, they bring it back and kind of re-counterattack. Not every team, obviously, but it's a different game."
According to Chaulk's experience with international players, the adaptation period typically takes four-to-six weeks to fully comprehend the North American style, and Samanski is approaching that critical evaluation point in his development.
Steady Improvement and NHL Projection
Through his first 14 AHL games, Samanski has recorded 7 points (2 goals, 5 assists) while demonstrating measurable growth in key areas of his game.
"He's got a little bit better each game," Chaulk observed, noting their ongoing dialogue about his progression. "I thought he's been getting a little more physical. He wasn't at first, and he's brought some physicality into his game."
The coaching staff has specifically noted improvements in Samanski's confidence with the puck and his willingness to carry it rather than immediately disposing of it. These developments, combined with his imposing frame and skating ability, point toward a potential NHL future as a power-forward type in a bottom-six role.
Chaulk emphasized that Samanski's physical presence and growing comfort with the North American game are developing in positive directions, suggesting the German prospect is on track to potentially follow in his countryman's footsteps to Rogers Place in the coming seasons.
