The Edmonton Oilers may need to make a difficult roster decision as minor league standout James Hamblin continues building an undeniable case for promotion while veteran forward Mattias Janmark struggles to generate offense.
Hamblin last appeared in an Oilers uniform during the 2023-24 campaign that saw him suit up for 31 regular season contests. What followed was a stint with the Bakersfield Condors that has completely altered his NHL trajectory.
Over his past two seasons in the AHL, the forward has been nothing short of exceptional compiling 36 goals and 73 points across 92 games. His reliable production and consistent play have made him impossible for management to overlook as they evaluate their depth options.
Analyst questions Janmark's left potential amid offensive drought
Meanwhile, Janmark's offensive contributions have dried up dramatically. Through 43 appearances this season, the veteran has managed just a single goal and eight points while posting a concerning minus-8 rating.
When Janmark initially joined Edmonton in June 2023, there was genuine optimism about his fit. His 10-goal, 25-point performance over 66 games suggested he could provide valuable depth scoring. That promise has since faded.
NHL analyst Jason Gregor recently questioned the sustainability of relying on Janmark's playoff performance.
"Hey, I get the good player in the playoffs thing; but are you gonna be able to just flip a switch. Can't score in the regular season, but I can score in the playoffs two years in a row? That would be pretty remarkable if he did. But when you look at Mattias Janmark, I'm wondering how much offense potentially he has left," he said.
Banking on a player to suddenly rediscover scoring touch exclusively during the postseason represents a risky strategy with minimal margin for error. While Janmark has elevated his game in previous playoff runs, depending on that pattern without regular season evidence creates unnecessary vulnerability.
A growing list of ready prospects can force decisions
Hamblin isn't the only Condors player knocking on the NHL door. Several prospects in Bakersfield are producing at levels that warrant serious consideration which would create healthy competition for roster spots.
The fan-favorite forward has successfully resurrected his career through consistent AHL production and has positioned himself as a legitimate option when the Oilers need to inject energy and offense into their bottom six.
His development arc in Bakersfield has been exactly what Edmonton hoped for when they sent him down.
As the season progresses, the contrast between Hamblin's sustained success and Janmark's offensive struggles will definitely bring up the conversation about who deserves to wear an Oilers jersey.