The Edmonton Oilers have initiated a series of roster moves as the NHL season progresses, headlined by the placement of forward David Tomasek on waivers. In a corresponding move, the club activated forward Noah Philp from long-term injured reserve, but his return to the active roster was brief, as he was also placed on waivers.
Details of the Roster Transactions
The transaction wire was busy for the Oilers on December 29, 2025. The decision to waive David Tomasek opens the possibility for another team to claim the forward. Simultaneously, the activation of Noah Philp from LTIR marked a positive step in his recovery from a long-term injury. However, the team's immediate decision to also place Philp on waivers suggests a strategic maneuver to create roster flexibility or assess his market value without committing an active roster spot.
Context and Implications for the Oilers
These moves are typical of the fluid nature of NHL roster management, especially as teams navigate salary cap constraints and seek optimal lineup configurations. Placing a player on waivers is a mechanism that allows other clubs the opportunity to claim him, which can serve as a precursor to a potential reassignment to the American Hockey League if he clears. For Philp, the sequence of activation and immediate waiving indicates that while he is medically cleared to play, the Oilers may be exploring all options regarding his future with the organization.
The timing of these announcements, coming just days after the holiday roster freeze lifted, points to the Oilers' front office actively shaping the team for the second half of the schedule. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if either player is claimed by another franchise or if they clear waivers, which would grant Edmonton further assignment options.
