Bob Stauffer hinted at an impending signing out of Europe during last night’s broadcast against the Vegas Golden Knights, and the Edmonton Oilers wasted no time in making his prediction come true.
Earlier this morning, the Oilers announced the signing of German forward Josh Samanski to a two-year, entry-level contract that begins in the 2025–26 season.
Josh Samanski career to date
Possibly leaning on German superstar Leon Draisaitl for some tips and advice, with that maybe even being a factor why he chose Edmonton over the other interested teams, Samanski is a German-born forward who just turned 23 late last month.
Samanski spent four seasons in the Jungadler Mannheim development system from 2015 to 2018 before playing two seasons in Ontario. One was with the Brantford 99ers of the OJHL, the other with the Owen Sound Attack of the OHL.
He returned to Germany for the 2020–21 season, where he has remained since, playing in the DEL and DEL2. His last four seasons have been spent primarily with the Straubing Tigers, where he will finish out this season before joining the Oilers for next season.
Samanski has also spent plenty of time representing Germany internationally, with a highlight possibly being his three points in four games at the 2021–22 World Junior Classic. He also wore an A for this tournament.
What to expect from Josh Samanski
Thus far, Samanski’s numbers are not out-of-this-world in the DEL. Though he is currently leading his team in scoring with 40 points in 52 games. And, he has been getting better each season.
The likely scenario for Samanski moving forward is a season, at least, in the AHL with the Bakersfield Condors. He has only played two years in North America, both of which were six years ago.
That, combined with his lower production, makes it likely he will spend some time in the AHL developing further.
Samanski, due to his size standing at 6’5″, and position, being a centre, gives the Oilers in intriguing option in the coming years for a bottom six centre. He is said to be responsible in all zones and game situations, and has been one of the best young forwards in the DEL this season.
We are excited for this signing and hope to see Samanski don the Oilers sweater soon!
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