Winger Andrew Mangiapane, who was born in Bolton, Ontario, Canada, a suburb of Toronto, has signed a two-year, $7.2 million contract with the Edmonton Oilers, opting not to join his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs in free agency. The deal was made official shortly after the free agent market opened in July.
While the Maple Leafs were reportedly interested, Mangiapane confirmed they never made a formal offer, which led to his decision to head west.
Why Didn’t the Maple Leafs Make a Real Push for Andrew Mangiapane?
In a recent radio interview, Mangiapane opened up about the process. He described the experience as “fun and nerve-wracking,” noting that while the Leafs had reached out, Edmonton’s pitch was more compelling.
A strong push from Oilers stars and management made the difference, giving Mangiapane a clear vision of his role on a team that has reached the Stanley Cup Final in back-to-back seasons.
The Oilers’ newest forward didn’t rule out Toronto in free agency, but they didn’t come calling in full force either.
Speaking to TSN1050’s First Up, Mangiapane revealed he seriously considered the Leafs. “I was definitely hearing out the Leafs, and there were some pros and cons there,” he said. “(But) there was no real firm offer from the Leafs, and Edmonton gave me this great deal.”
The Oilers not only made a competitive financial offer but also showed strong interest on a personal level. Superstars Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and head coach Kris Knoblauch reportedly reached out to Mangiapane directly, which had an impact.
“It’s nice that they were able to reach out and it almost makes you feel like you’re wanted in a way,” he said. “They want you and they know what I can do.”
The 29-year-old winger is returning to Alberta after one season with the Capitals, where he posted 14 goals and 28 points. Though it wasn’t his most productive year, Mangiapane sees Edmonton as a place to regain form, especially if paired with elite talent on the top two lines.
How Did Edmonton Convince a Former Flames Star to Join?
Having spent most of his career in Calgary, Mangiapane was surprised Edmonton pursued him. He assumed his history with the Flames might keep the Oilers at a distance.
“It’s kind of crazy. If you told me two years ago [that] I’d be playing for the Edmonton Oilers, I’d be laughing at you,” he said.
“When they reached out, I couldn’t pass up on that opportunity. I have this great opportunity to play on a Stanley Cup contender who went to the final two years in a row. They’re a great team, I get to play with great players, and I felt like it was a great fit for my family.”
In 498 NHL games, Mangiapane has recorded 123 goals and 120 assists. His breakout year came in 2021–22 when he scored 35 goals with the Flames, then under GM Brad Treliving, now with the Maple Leafs.
Looking back at Andrew Mangiapane’s best goals as a member of the Calgary Flames 🔥
🎥: Sportsnet | NHL pic.twitter.com/4KhKwWttSP
— FlamesNation (@FlamesNation) January 28, 2025
Despite the past connection, Toronto pivoted elsewhere, acquiring Matias Maccelli and Nicolas Roy in separate trades. The Leafs’ offensive reshuffle continues in the post-Mitch Marner era, but for Mangiapane, Edmonton was a better fit competitively and personally.
The Oilers are betting that a fresh start and a return to Alberta will spark another productive season. Mangiapane is embracing the challenge and the expectations. Whether he’s skating alongside McDavid or Draisaitl or providing depth further down the lineup, he says he’s ready to contribute wherever needed.
