The Edmonton Oilers might surprise many by including a significant number of rookies on their opening night roster for the 2025-26 season. According to Bob Stauffer, host of Oilers Now and radio color analyst, there's a real possibility that five rookies could start the season with the team.

In a recent social media post, Stauffer speculated that Matt Savoie, Isaac Howard, David Tomasek, Noah Philp, and Alec Regula could all be on the Oilers' opening night roster. He emphasized the importance of internal growth and development from these players, as well as from Vasily Podkolzin and Ty Emberson.

Several of these rookies have impressed during the preseason. Savoie and Howard are projected to potentially fill top-nine roles, bringing offensive firepower on the wings alongside the Oilers' established stars. Philp has demonstrated readiness for the NHL with strong preseason performances, making a case for a fourth-line center position. Tomasek has also been solid, showcasing his shooting ability, face-off wins, and forechecking skills. The Oilers have even experimented with him on the net-front power play, a spot typically occupied by Zach Hyman.

Regula, a 6'4" defenseman acquired from the Chicago Blackhawks, could be the most unexpected inclusion. While not technically a rookie due to prior NHL experience, he would be new to the Oilers this season.

If Stauffer's prediction holds true, several players might miss the cut for the Oilers' opening night lineup. Atro Leppanen, Cam Dineen, Curtis Lazar, and potentially Mattias Janmark could be among those. Leppanen has played well in the preseason, but faces an uphill battle to make the team, though he remains a likely call-up option during the season.

The Oilers' focus on incorporating rookies reflects a need for internal development and a desire to inject fresh talent into the lineup. The strong preseason performances of these young players have made a compelling case for their inclusion on the opening night roster.

The Oilers held their 2025 Rookie Camp in September, featuring 25 players, including 14 forwards, 7 defensemen, and 4 goaltenders. Isaac Howard, acquired from the Tampa Bay Lightning, along with 2025 NHL Draft selections Tommy Lafreniere and David Lewandowski, were among the attendees. Other notable participants included defenseman Beau Akey and forwards Matt Savoie and Quinn Hutson.