Edmonton Oilers

Forward at Risk: Oilers Make Key Power Play Change vs. Blackhawks

The Edmonton Oilers are tweaking their lineup and top power play unit, leaving a bubble player in an awkard spot.

by
NHL Trade Talk
November 1, 2025

The Edmonton Oilers will tinker with their lineup on Saturday as they face the Chicago Blackhawks, with Noah Philp returning and David Tomasek scratched. In Tomasek’s absence, Jack Roslovic will take a spot on the top-unit power play.

Roslovic, who missed all of training camp and the first few games of the season, has recently found his rhythm. He’s played in 10 games this season, recording one goal and three assists, and seems to have developed chemistry on the second line with Leon Draisaitl and Vasily Podkolzin. Head coach Kris Knoblauch sees Roslovic as a natural fit for the power play.

“The power play has been going quite well so far this season,” Knoblauch said. “We want a right-hand shot to get in front of the goalie, Jack could help with our entries with his speed.” He won’t be counted on that, given the Oilers have Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl ready to carry the puck in. Instead, the coach likes the fit positionally, and he wants to strike while the iron is hot.

“Here’s a guy that’s joining our team and been playing fairly well, has had many scoring opportunties, contribute a little bit. We feel he’s a good offensive player that should be able to fill in in that role.”

Jack Roslovic Oilers practice Photo by Jim Parsons

Is Tomasek At Risk Of Losing His Spot?

For Roslovic, the move represents an opportunity to boost his point production and build confidence in a key offensive role with the team’s best players. It’s a temporary fix, given that Zach Hyman is close to returning, but all Roslovic needs is a game or two at the position to really feel confident and put up some additional points.

Meanwhile, Tomasek’s spot in the lineup could be at risk as Edmonton’s roster starts to return to full health. With Hyman and Mattias Janmark nearing returns, Tomasek will need to produce consistently to maintain his role. If he’s not on the power play and pulled from the lineup, those opportunities will be fewer and farther between.

Next: Oilers And Hurricanes A Fit For Immediate Blue Line Trade