Edmonton Oilers fans are frustrated, and with good reason. As the team heads into the 2025-26 NHL season, the most glaring issue on the roster remains the goaltending. Both Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard have struggled to meet expectations, and despite management’s best efforts at the 2025 NHL Draft, only one goaltending prospect was added to the pipeline.
With limited draft capital and a fan base eager for solutions, the Oilers’ latest move, signing winger Andrew Mangiapane, has only added to the disappointment for many who feel the team’s priorities are misplaced.
Oilers’ Fans in Foul Mood As Bowman Brings Another Winger
On July 2, 2025, hockey insider Elliotte Friedman reported that the Oilers have signed Andrew Mangiapane to a two-year, $7.2 million contract with a $3.6 million average annual value. The deal includes a full no-trade clause in the first year and a five-team trade list in the second, according to NHL analyst David Pagnotta.
While Mangiapane brings experience and depth to the forward group, the move has not been well received by a fan base desperate for an upgrade in net.
Andrew Mangiapane 2 x $3.6M
Edmonton
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) July 2, 2025
Adding to the frustration, the Oilers have already missed out on their top trade targets for goaltending. Jake Allen was retained by the New Jersey Devils, while John Gibson was traded to the Detroit Red Wings. The inability to address the most pressing need has left fans questioning the direction of the team.
Following an underwhelming performance by Skinner in the Stanley Cup Final, fan sentiment has grown increasingly negative. Skinner’s struggles, especially with lateral movement and rush plays, were evident as he allowed multiple goals in key games against the Panthers, with Sam Bennett and Sam Reinhart capitalizing on his weaknesses.
On social media, the reaction has been swift and critical. One fan sarcastically asked, “All good, but does he play in net?!! Asking for a friend,” while others have pointed out that the team’s investment in the forward group is not the solution to their problems.
All good but does he play in net !! Asking for a friend
— Wheresyourkuzzy (@Wheresyourhorv1) July 2, 2025
Other fans have echoed similar sentiments, with one noting, “Overpay by the Oilers and didn’t improve their goaltending or defense.” Another simply asked, “Can he play goalie?” The consensus among the fan base is clear: the team’s most urgent need is in net, not up front.
And still have not addressed their goalie problems
— Johnny on the spot (@Johnnysippin) July 2, 2025
Meanwhile, some have pointed out that Mangiapane has not been a standout on the first line, and his $3.6 million price tag for a 28-point season has raised eyebrows. With all these issues unresolved, Bowman and the management team will have their work cut out for them before the regular season resumes in October.
