The Edmonton Oilers, a team in the midst of a Stanley Cup window, have had to trade away numerous first-round picks and prospects in recent seasons to bolster their immediate roster. This has left them with one of the weakest prospect pipelines in the NHL. However, the Oilers have shown creativity in identifying talent, signing college and European free agents to replenish their system. Among their prospects, three stand out for their potential impact in the 2026-27 season: Samuel Jonsson, Tommy Lafrenière, and Connor Ungar.
Samuel Jonsson, a 22-year-old goaltender, was a fifth-round pick in 2022. He played for the Fort Wayne Komets in the ECHL last season, posting impressive numbers with a 21-8-2 record, a 2.38 goals-against average (GAA), and a .910 save percentage (SV%). His performance in the playoffs, with a 2.31 GAA and .925 SV%, further solidified his potential. Jonsson's size (6-foot-5, 201 pounds) and success in North America after playing in Sweden make him a prospect to watch. If he thrives in the AHL, it will confirm the Oilers' long-standing need for goaltending stability.
Tommy Lafrenière, a 19-year-old forward, was a third-round pick in 2025 but remains unsigned. He had a breakout season with the Kamloops Blazers in the Western Hockey League (WHL), recording 41 goals and 77 points in 67 games. His professional debut with the Bakersfield Condors in the AHL was also successful, with one goal and two points in five games. Lafrenière's performance at the 2026 World Junior Summer Showcase further highlights his potential. He will continue his development at Western Michigan University in the NCAA, where he will face a different level of competition. While he is a long-term project, his upside and potential make him an emerging prospect to watch.
Connor Ungar, an undrafted 24-year-old goaltender, signed with the Oilers in 2024 after a successful college career. Despite the organization's struggles to find him playing time, Ungar's numbers were stellar. He posted a .944 SV% in six games with the Komets and the Greensboro Gargoyles, and a .913 SV% in 19 games with the Orlando Solar Bears. His .923 SV% in 13 AHL games further demonstrates his talent. Ungar's trajectory and success at every level make him a prospect to watch. While an NHL call-up is unlikely this season, his continued development could lead to an NHL appearance in the future.
In summary, the Edmonton Oilers have three promising prospects in Samuel Jonsson, Tommy Lafrenière, and Connor Ungar. Jonsson's goaltending potential, Lafrenière's forward upside, and Ungar's steady development make them key players to watch in the 2026-27 season. The organization's patience and focus on proper development will be crucial to their long-term success.
