Oilers Lose 20-Goal Scorer
Consistent 20-Goal Scorer Niveive Expected To Depart Oilers Amidst Young Talent Emergence
Jack Roslovic, a consistent 20-goal scorer for the Edmonton Oilers, is expected to hit the open market on July 1, according to The Athletic. The 29-year-old forward, who scored 21 goals in 69 games this past season, has not secured a new deal and is unlikely to return.
NHL insider Pierre LeBrun confirmed the news, saying Roslovic "is also likely headed to market" as an unrestricted free agent. It marks the latest chapter for a player who has suited up for four different NHL teams in just three seasons.
A Cap Crunch Forces Edmonton's Hand
The Oilers are facing a tight salary cap situation this summer. Three other unrestricted free agents — Jason Dickinson, Connor Murphy, and Kasperi Kapanen — are expected to cost a combined $12 million to re-sign, according to Leader Post. That math leaves almost no room for Roslovic.
Analyst Harman Dayal wrote that the Oilers "have no choice but to let Roslovic walk," per The Athletic. Edmonton carries roughly $15.5 million in projected cap space heading into July 1. Once the defensive re-signings are done, that number shrinks fast.
Roslovic's Playoff Disappearance Sealed His Fate
Roslovic scored 21 goals in the regular season. But when the playoffs arrived, he recorded just one point as the Oilers were knocked out in the first round by the Anaheim Ducks, according to Paris Star Online. That drop-off hurt his case for a new deal.
Critics now frame him as a "regular-season luxury" the Oilers can no longer afford. Edmonton's management reportedly likes his speed, but his struggles in defensive situations and invisible playoff showing made him the easiest cut, per Calgary Sun.
Roslovic's Bumpy Road to This Point
Last summer, Roslovic turned down a multi-year offer from Edmonton seeking better pay elsewhere. He found no takers. By October 8, 2025, he returned to the Oilers on a one-year, team-friendly deal to rebuild his value, according to Ottawa Sun.
His four teams in three seasons label him a journeyman. He has shown flashes of skill — great hands and high-end speed — but has never locked down a long-term home, Edmonton Examiner reported.
What Comes Next for Roslovic and the Oilers
Roslovic enters what analysts call "one of the weakest free-agent classes in years." Teams like New Jersey and Buffalo are reportedly interested. At 29, with 20-goal pedigree, he is a prime low-risk pickup for a rebuilding club, per Sudbury Star.
For Edmonton, losing a 20-goal scorer leaves a hole in secondary scoring. But it frees up an estimated $3.5–$4 million in cap space. The Oilers also need to address goaltending, where only Tristan Jarry is currently under contract, according to Northern News.
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