Oilers make two roster changes right after their defeat against Calgary Flames
The Edmonton Oilers just experienced another frustrating loss to the Calgary Flames, and right after that, they made two roster changes.
Shortly after the game ended, the Oilers announced that they would be sending Josh Samanski and Calvin Pickard to the AHL.
Edmonton Oilers send Josh Samanski and Calvin Pickard to AHL
Oilers Prospect Josh Samanski Named to Germany’s Olympic Roster
— The Hockey Writers (@TheHockeyWriter) January 11, 2026
Basically, these roster changes look like standard procedures to help the Oilers create as much salary space as possible during the Olympic break.
Goalie Calvin Pickard has recently passed through waivers, but he might not actually go to the AHL. Sources say that the Oilers could let Pickard skip going to the Condors as a sign of respect.
He has worked hard all season on the NHL team and deserves the Olympic break, and he doesn’t want to leave his family in Edmonton to play in the minors in California.
The #Oilers have assigned forward Josh Samanski & goaltender Calvin Pickard to the @Condors. pic.twitter.com/SpyZYuZl9j
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) February 5, 2026
On top of that, the Oilers currently have a strong duo in the minor leagues with Matt Tomkins and rising star Connor Ungar. The team wouldn’t want to take away playing time from Ungar right now, especially not for the 33-year-old Pickard.
For now, Pickard is in a bit of uncertainty, and he might not get any more NHL game time this season unless there’s a trade or injury within the Oilers team.
Josh Samanski isn’t going to join the Bakersfield Condors either – he’s going to the Olympics with Leon Draisaitl to play for Team Germany.
The Oilers picked up the 23-year-old Samanski from the DEL last season, and he quickly impressed the team with his performance in both the AHL and NHL.
During his five games with the Oilers, Samanski showed great skill as a center—he has height and speed, and even got 2 points during limited play. It seems the Oilers have a promising player on their hands.
With the NHL now on a 20-day break, it’s normal to see these kinds of roster moves happening across the league.
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