Oilers Sign 6'5 German Center Josh Samanski To 2-year deal
The Edmonton Oilers have inked Josh Samanski to a two-year, entry-level deal starting in the 2025-26 season. A skilled, physical forward, Samanski is expected to begin next season in the AHL.
According to Jim Matheson, "He tallied 40 points in 52 games this year. While there’s no certainty he’ll crack the Oilers’ roster this fall, his combination of size and production makes him an interesting prospect."
In their official announcement, the Oilers noted that Samanski, a 23-year-old center from Erding, Germany (who also holds Canadian citizenship), led the DEL’s Straubing Tigers in scoring during the 2024-25 season with 14 goals and 26 assists.
The #Oilers have signed Josh Samanski to a two-year entry-level contract beginning in the 2025-26 season.
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) April 2, 2025
Learn more about the forward ⤵️ https://t.co/iFXDCIn7kN
Oilers Now host Bob Stauffer mentioned, “Several teams were interested in Samanski.” He described the lanky left-shot center as a skilled player with potential, calling him an intriguing development project for the Oilers. “
He’s made significant progress in the DEL over the past few seasons.” Stauffer had previously noted during the Oilers-Golden Knights broadcast that Edmonton could target multiple college or European free agents.
Mark Spector added, “Samanski is a 6’5”, left-shot German center. Leon Draisaitl even helped recruit him over the phone." His father, John Samanski, is from Oshawa but played in the DEL.
Josh, 23, was born in Erding, Germany, and will attend training camp, though he’ll likely begin next season in Bakersfield.”
Samanski has represented Germany at two World Junior Championships and one Deutschland Cup, in addition to playing for Straubing at the 2024 Spengler Cup.
Image - Jim Rassol-Imagn
