The Edmonton Oilers' low-risk experiment with forward David Tomasek has concluded, with the 29-year-old opting to return to play in Sweden rather than remain in North America. Tomasek, who signed a one-year deal worth $1.2 million, departs after a stint that showed flashes of ability but ultimately lacked the consistency and speed required for a permanent NHL role.
A Calculated Gamble That Didn't Pay Off
The Oilers' acquisition of David Tomasek was a classic low-cost, high-reward move. His contract carried a minimal cap hit of just $50,000 if assigned to the AHL's Bakersfield Condors, providing the team with significant flexibility. Instead of accepting a minor league assignment, Tomasek has chosen to resume his career in Sweden, where he has been a top scorer in recent seasons. This move also allows him to secure heavy minutes in preparation for the 2026 Olympics, where he is expected to be a role player for Czechia alongside stars like Martin Necas, Tomas Hertl, and David Pastrnak.
Opportunity and Limitations in Edmonton
Tomasek received a genuine opportunity to cement his place, particularly during the first six weeks of the season when Zach Hyman was injured. During this period, he was given a look on the team's top power-play unit. However, he was eventually supplanted by Jack Roslovic, whose superior speed, composure under pressure, and quicker hands made him a more effective option. While Tomasek demonstrated a willingness to battle in front of the net and occasionally bull his way to scoring areas, his skating speed and agility limited his ability to consistently create high-danger chances.
His underlying statistics reflect this struggle. At even strength, Tomasek's rate of making shots, passes, hits, or screens that led to Grade A shots was just 1.45 per 15 minutes. This was the lowest mark among regular Oilers forwards, below even Curtis Lazar and rookie Ike Howard. For comparison, struggling forward Trent Frederic, who had far more opportunity on a top line, managed a slightly higher rate of 1.54 per 15.
Roster Crowding and the Path Forward
The writing was on the wall for Tomasek's future with the organization beyond his individual performance. The Oilers have a pipeline of talented under-24 forwards developing in Bakersfield, including Quinn Hutson, Ike Howard, Viljami Marjala, and Josh Samanski. This influx of young, cost-controlled skill made Tomasek's path to securing a spot on the third or fourth line increasingly narrow.
Tomasek exits on good terms, having scored three NHL goals and experienced the unique opportunity of occasionally playing on a line with superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The Oilers provided him with a chance, and he gave his best effort. In the end, the combination of his limitations and the team's depth chart led to a mutual parting of ways as he continues his professional hockey journey.
