The Edmonton Oilers called up forward Josh Samanski from the Bakersfield Condors of the American Hockey League (AHL), loaning forward Isaac Howard to the Condors in a corresponding move. Samanski is set to make his NHL debut on Monday, Jan. 26, against the Anaheim Ducks, replacing Andrew Mangiapane in the lineup.
The #Oilers have recalled forward Josh Samanski from the @Condors & loaned forward Isaac Howard to Bakersfield. pic.twitter.com/nm0A2bsPD5
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) January 26, 2026
The undrafted rookie was signed by the Oilers in April after a successful season in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL), the highest professional league in Germany. He recorded 14 goals and 40 points in 52 games with the Straubing Tigers in the DEL before his signing.
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“It’s awesome. I’m very excited to get things started and experience my first game. Playing in North America for the first time was a bit of a learning curve, but from the staff to the players, they did a good job helping me adjust. I felt comfortable from the get-go, and I improved my two-way game. I’m looking forward to showcasing my skills,” Samamski stated ahead of his debut.
“Looking forward to showcasing my skills.”
Josh Samanski checks in ahead of his first @NHL game as the #Oilers host Anaheim.@Enterprise | #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/VBN0A5Y1aK
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) January 26, 2026
He has been solid in his first professional season in North America, registering seven goals and 28 points in 39 games with the Condors, good for fourth on the team in points.
Edmonton held an optional morning skate, so no line combinations were confirmed. However, he’s expected to centre the third line, with Jack Roslovic and Matt Savoie, but that’s subject to change. Either way, that third line should provide much-needed speed to the lineup.
Samanski Is Headed to Italy
The 6-foot-2, 195-pounder will be representing Germany at the Olympics in February, joining teammate Leon Draisaitl. Playing with one of the best players in the NHL and against the best players in the world will be great experience for him.
Joshua Samanski, Edmonton Oilers (Perry Nelson-Imagn Images)
This is likely a trial run for him to see if he can play at this level and maybe be the third-line centre in the future. He should play meaningful minutes until the Olympic break to give him a taste of the NHL. Hopefully, head coach Kris Knoblauch gives him decent ice time.
This is an exciting time for the young German. He gets to make his NHL debut and play for his country at the Olympics within a few weeks. Hopefully, he makes the most of his opportunity and provides a spark to the bottom six.
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