Insider reveals Oilers forward may have clause to avoid AHL assignment

While this clause likely isn't actually written into Tomasek's contract, this is common for European free agents to have a verbal agreement in deals.

The Edmonton Oilers have already loaned David Toamsek to their AHL affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors, earlier in the season, suggesting he doesn't have a contract-clause that prevents the Oilers from doing it again.

Tomasek signed a one-year, one-way deal with the Oilers for the 2025-26 season, with a cap hit of $1.2M. His contract is considered buriable, as its AAV of $1.2 million is only slightly above the NHL's $1.15M limit for the 2025-26 season, as per PuckPedia.

When assigned to the AHL, only $50K of his cap hit remains on the Oilers' books, and though David does not have a clause preventing an AHL assignment, reports indicate he has an exit clause allowing him to return to Sweden.

Tomasek has not performed well this season in Edmonton, having only scored 1G and 2A, with a minus-4, despite a consistent role on the power play. His 5v5 play, particularly at center, has been a challenge, with analysts noting his struggles in two-way play and speed. For this reason, he has been benched at times.

It is likely David Tomasek would prefer to play in Europe rather than be sent down to the AHL's Bakersfield Condors. At 29-years old, playing where he's already had success may be the better move for him.

The 29-year old forward led the Swedish Hockey League in scoring last season, with 24G and 57 points in 47 games played with Farjestad BK. He becomes an unrestricted free agent July 1st, 2026.