The Edmonton Oilers remain in a strong position in the Pacific Division, currently sitting second with a 21-16-6 record. But their recent stretch has been anything but smooth. Despite a convincing 6-2 win over the Nashville Predators on Tuesday, Edmonton has dropped three of its last five games.
Intending to make a deep postseason run, the Oilers are once again exploring ways to fine-tune their roster. One name now firmly in the middle of trade speculation is forward Andrew Mangiapane.
Insider Reveals Where Oilers Stand on Andrew Mangiapane Trade Speculation
Mangiapane’s role in Edmonton has steadily shrunk over the past few weeks. He has been a healthy scratch in back-to-back games. And he was also scratched during a 3-1 win over Winnipeg. Although he briefly returned to the lineup in a 6-2 loss to Boston, he logged just 7:31 of ice time, a clear sign of how far down the depth chart he has fallen.
Production has also been an issue. Mangiapane has managed just 11 points in 40 games this season. His average ice time has dropped to 13:22 per night. For a player carrying a $3.6 million cap hit, that level of usage has raised eyebrows.
With the situation no longer working out, it’s believed that both parties are open to moving on. Mangiapane is reportedly willing to waive his no-trade clause on his two-year, $7.2 million deal if it means landing in a better fit. Speaking on “Oilersnation Everyday”, NHL insider David Pagnotta explained why dealing the winger won’t be simple for Edmonton.
“I don’t get the sense that whoever takes on Andrew Mangiapane is gonna take him on for the full pop of his $3.6m, that’s not to say that they’re asking the Oilers to retain, but they’re gonna have to throw money back their ways.”
Pagnotta also emphasized that this is not about landing a significant return. The priority for the Oilers is flexibility, opening a roster spot and creating cap relief rather than chasing substantial assets.
“Like I said, that’s what I believe they’re trying to navigate right now and try to decide where the options are and how do we make this return that’s feasible for us too,” Pagnotta added.
ALSO READ: Penguins Insider Reveals Pittsburgh’s Stance on Ex-Oilers Goalie Stuart Skinner
As the March deadline closes in, the Oilers continue to weigh their options. Whether Mangiapane is moved or not, Edmonton remains focused on improving the roster.
For now, the focus shifts back to the ice, with the Oilers set to face the Winnipeg Jets on Thursday.
