Part way through the season opener for the Edmonton Oilers, it was announced that the club had signed the top remaining free agent, forward Jack Roslovic to a one-year contract worth $1.5 million.
It was seen as a big win at the time as the Oilers were in need of the injection of affordable depth into their top-nine. Especially with the club being forced to let multiple players walk as free agents or trade them away over the summer.
Fortunately, the Roslovic signing has been one of the best moves the Oilers have made and could be the best free agent signing since Zach Hyman a few years ago. Through 41 games this season he has 22 points with 14 goals and eight assists.
The signing has been such a success that according to Bob Stauffer on OilersNow, the Oilers are showing some interest in locking up Roslovic. Stauffer said specifically; "I’m going to tell you right now, it’s going to be in the fours. If you’re the Oilers, you want to keep it to a term of four years. So we’ll be monitoring that situation ongoing, because he’s got the ability to play in the top six on a regular basis.”
This sounds like the potential signing would be between $4 million - $5 million per year over a four year term. Although the two parties have found success, is it too early to commit?
It is too soon for the Oilers to sign Roslovic
After missing the entirety of training camp, it took some time for Roslovic to heat up only scoring four points in his first 10 games before breaking out scoring 11 in his next 10. However, since his injury in late November, he has slowed down quite significantly.
Through 18 games since his return from injury on December 21st, he has scored four points, all goals. Despite his lack of production, there have been positive signs with him consistently outshooting and outchancing his opponents when he is on the ice, according to evolving-hockey.com.
There is no hiding the fact that Roslovic has been a great addition to this Oilers team and has proven to be a valuable player within the top-nine. He has been able to play on the wing and at centre and has shown a great ability to drive play on the third line recently, while being a solid complimentary piece in the top-six alongside stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
However, it is still too early for the Oilers to break the bank and commit to Roslovic for the long term, especially with his up and down play. The team is reportedly looking into adding a top-nine forward at the trade deadline, which under the right circumstances could be a player that would be a better long-term addition than the 28 year old.
It is very possible that this is a good move and the one that the Oilers make down the line but I would urge caution for Stan Bowman and company, let the season play out and revisit the possibility of an extension before free agency. There is no need to make a big commitment that could blow up in the team's face, especially with how crucial this period is during the McDavid era.