The Edmonton Oilers are dealing with continuous long-term injuries during the 2025–26 NHL season, and recent developments suggest Mattias Janmark is expected to miss the remainder of the year due to surgery. Janmark was a last-minute scratch for the team’s recent win against the Los Angeles Kings, with reports initially pointing to a persistent shoulder issue requiring rest. However, further updates indicate surgical intervention might be necessary, which would sideline him at least until the regular season concludes.
Stauffer says that Janmark might be going for surgery and would then be out till at least the end of the regular season. #LetsGoOilers
— Bob Stauffer, Broadcaster
Now in the second year of a three-year contract worth $1.45 million annually, Janmark has contributed one goal and eight points over 47 games so far this season.
Potential Consequences for the Oilers’ Roster and Strategy
As a depth forward and key member of the penalty kill unit, Janmark’s absence challenges the Oilers to fill an important role. Fortunately, Edmonton’s roster includes several promising younger players currently with the Bakersfield Condors, a key minor league affiliate. One candidate to absorb Janmark’s responsibilities is Josh Samanski, who recently made his NHL debut before the Olympic break and offers a seamless fit for bottom-six duties.
This situation presents a developmental chance for younger players to earn NHL minutes and advance their careers. On special teams, coaches plan to lean more heavily on star forwards Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl while shorthanded. Additionally, Adam Henrique’s recent return from injury adds another option for penalty-killing duties moving forward.
With the NHL trade deadline approaching, Janmark’s likely injured status might provide the Oilers with some flexibility using the Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR) to facilitate potential roster moves.
Outlook Amid the Ongoing Injury Challenges
Janmark’s injury continues the unfortunate trend of key Edmonton players missing extended time this season, putting pressure on the Oilers’ depth and coaching staff to adjust continuously. However, the team’s blend of experienced leaders such as McDavid and Draisaitl and emerging prospects like Samanski maintains competitive depth. The Oilers will now monitor recovery timelines closely and explore roster adjustments ahead of the critical trade window to sustain their push this season.
Stauffer says that Janmark might be going for surgery and would then be out till at least the end of the regular season. #LetsGoOilers
— hockey person (@keggsports) February 27, 2026
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