The NHL trade deadline is closing in, and Edmonton is still working through key roster decisions. Some new players have settled into the lineup, while others are dealing with uncertainty. Andrew Mangiapane is one of the names now in focus as the team looks at its next move.
The Oilers are trying to follow cap space while making lineup changes.
Andrew Mangiapane Addresses Uncertainty as Edmonton Explores Options
Mangiapane’s time with the Edmonton Oilers has taken a different turn in recent weeks. He has been a healthy scratch for a few games earlier in the season, and he continues to be part of trade discussions ahead of the March 6, 2026, deadline. The forward signed a two-year, $7.2 million contract in the 2025 offseason, but his role has been limited for much of the season.
Edmonton is now exploring options to move his contract in order to manage salary cap space. So, they reportedly placed him on the trade block.
A deal was discussed on Feb. 25 that would have sent Mangiapane to the Toronto Maple Leafs, but it did not go through because Toronto was not interested. Since then, several teams have come up as possible destinations.
Mangiapane has a full no-trade clause until June 15, meaning he must approve any move before the deadline. Later, from June 16 onward, the NMC becomes a 5-team trade list.
Speaking to Sportsnet’s Mark Spector, Mangiapane explained how he has handled the situation during the Olympic break.
“I feel like every meal was pasta, bread…,” he said. “Just went back home, brought my gear there, and went on the ice and trained. Got back (to Edmonton), worked out, trained, and just kind of stayed ready physically. The mental aspect was a good break, just for a little reset, being around friends and family. Be positive and just enjoy the game again.”
Talking about the trade rumors, he made it clear that he understands the situation is beyond his control. “That’s the only thing I can do,” Mangiapane added. “And if they still want to trade me, then they still want to trade me.”
READ MORE: Insiders Outline What Potential Oilers Trade Would Look Like for Maple Leafs Winger Bobby McMann
On the ice, the 2025-26 season has been challenging for the winger. He has six goals and 12 points in 50 games, with his ice time dropping to just under 13 minutes per game. He has mostly played in a bottom-six role and has seen very little time on the power play. This is a clear drop from his usage in previous seasons when he had a larger role.
As the deadline approaches, the Oilers will continue to explore their options, while Mangiapane remains ready for whatever decision comes next.
