Jack Roslovic has been a solid addition for the Edmonton Oilers this season but his upcoming contract negotiations could create some tough decisions for the team. Now eligible to sign a new deal, Roslovic’s strong play has put him up for a major pay increase, possibly more than Edmonton wants to spend.
Currently earning just $1.5M under his existing contract, Roslovic has clearly outperformed his modest salary. Through 34 games this season, he has compiled 12 goals and eight assists, demonstrating the kind of offensive production that typically asks significant compensation in today’s NHL marketplace.
With the salary cap rising and comparable players securing lucrative deals, some analysts believe Roslovic could command approximately $6M annually on his next contract. This projection draws comparisons to Alex Wennberg’s recent three-year agreement worth $18M in a deal that established a potential benchmark for players in Roslovic’s tier.
However, the question remains whether the Oilers view Roslovic as worthy of that investment particularly given their own salary cap constraints and future commitments.
How Edmonton is viewing Jack Roslovic’s next deal
Bob Stauffer and Ryan Rishaug recently discussed Roslovic’s contract situation on OilersNow offering different perspectives on what might happen.
Bob Stauffer expressed considerable doubt that Edmonton would meet the rumored $6M asking price. “I’d be shocked if we’re looking at $6M for Jack Roslovic,” Stauffer stated suggesting the team has established clear internal parameters for what they’re willing to spend.
Ryan Rishaug acknowledged the market reality while emphasizing a critical factor that could influence Edmonton’s decision-making. “Could he get $6M? Yeah,” Rishaug conceded, recognizing that Roslovic could potentially secure such a contract elsewhere if he performs well during the playoffs.
However, Rishaug raised an important concern about Roslovic’s postseason credentials, or lack thereof. “How’s he going to do when it gets real in the playoffs?” he questioned noting that former Carolina coach Rod Brind’Amour previously deemed him expendable during crucial playoff games making him a healthy scratch.
Rishaug’s recommendation was unambiguous regarding Edmonton’s strategy. “If I were the Oilers, I would not look at signing this player at all until I have that question answered,” he added.
Despite these concerns, Stauffer maintained his belief that Roslovic would ultimately remain with the organization at a reduced rate. “If he stays here, it’s going to be lower than that. And I see him staying here,” he predicted.
Why Roslovic might accept less money
One factor working in Edmonton’s favor is Roslovic’s recent career instability. He is now on his fourth team in just three seasons, a stretch that included going unsigned during last summer’s free agency before eventually landing with the Oilers on a modest deal.
That kind of uncertainty can wear on a player. After bouncing around the league and struggling to find consistent opportunities, the appeal of a longer-term contract with a contending team might outweigh chasing the absolute highest salary on the open market.
A four or five-year deal at a more team-friendly rate could provide Roslovic with the stability he has been missing while giving Edmonton cost certainty and cap flexibility. This type of arrangement has worked for both teams and players in the past.
The key would be structuring a deal that makes both sides feel they’re getting value where Roslovic gets term and stability, while Edmonton gets a productive player at a manageable cap hit.
Bet like a pro here with Bet99—Ontario’s go-to for elite odds and nonstop action. And outside Ontario, Canadians bet better here with Bet99—bringing top-tier odds and action from coast to coast.
Roslovic has fit right in into the Oilers’ forward group
Beyond his goal-scoring and point production, Roslovic has shown versatility in Edmonton’s lineup. He has been able to play different roles depending on what the team needs which is valuable for any coaching staff trying to manage a deep playoff run.
When injuries inevitably happen or when specific matchups require lineup changes, having players who can move up and down the lineup and play in various situations becomes increasingly important. Roslovic has demonstrated this flexibility which adds to his value beyond what the basic statistics show.
The upcoming playoffs will be crucial for determining Roslovic’s future with the Oilers. The team appears ready to let his postseason performance guide their decision-making process rather than committing to a contract based solely on regular season production.
If Roslovic steps up during the playoffs and shows he can produce under pressure, it would go a long way toward justifying a significant contract. A strong playoff performance would answer the main question Rishaug raised and could convince Edmonton’s management that he is worth a bigger investment.
On the other hand, if he struggles to make an impact or finds himself watching games from the press box like he did in Carolina, it would confirm the team’s hesitation. In that scenario, the Oilers would likely look elsewhere for their depth scoring needs during the offseason.
Contract timing could hinge on playoff performance
The Oilers are trying to balance competing priorities. They need reliable depth players who can contribute during playoff runs, but they also can’t afford to overpay for players who haven’t proven themselves in the postseason.
The organization has several options. They could offer Roslovic a contract before the playoffs based on what they have seen so far. They could wait until after the playoffs to make a decision based on his performance. Or they could simply let him test free agency and use that money elsewhere if another team makes a big offer.
Roslovic is now essentially playing for his next contract knowing that his performance over the coming weeks and months will determine both his salary and potentially where he plays next season.
Follow The Oil Rig on social media!
