Andrew Mangiapane is once again at the center of trade chatter in Edmonton. While the Oilers are trending in the right direction on the ice, coming off back-to-back wins, including a 7-4 victory over the Anaheim Ducks. They’re still actively trying to sort out their roster behind the scenes.
Are the Oilers Looking for a Fresh Start for Andrew Mangiapane?
Edmonton currently sits second in the Pacific Division, but not every offseason addition has worked out as planned. Mangiapane, signed in free agency, hasn’t found his footing with the Oilers, and both sides now appear open to a change.
The Oilers signed Mangiapane to a two-year, $7.2 million deal last summer. It carries a $3.6 million annual cap hit. However, his role has steadily diminished as the season has gone on. He’s been scratched for seven games. And is now averaging just 12:54 of ice time when he does play.
Production has been the issue. Through 47 games, he has managed just six goals and 12 points, numbers well below expectations for a middle-six forward making that kind of money.
With the situation clearly not working anymore, both the Oilers and Mangiapane appear open to finding a fresh start elsewhere. There’s a sense around the league that he’s willing to waive his no-trade clause if it helps get a deal done.
NHL insider Pierre LeBrun provided insight into where things stand, noting that the Oilers remain active in discussions. “It has been more than a month of Andrew Mangiapane being in and out of the Oilers lineup, and to some degree, it’s surprising he hasn’t been traded yet,” LeBrun said.
The holdup isn’t due to lack of effort. Edmonton continues to engage with teams and remains open to potential returns, but finding the right fit has been challenging.
“Mangiapane… contract that runs through next season at a $3.6 million cap hit, which complicates things. But Oilers GM Stan Bowman continues to have dialogue with teams because he wants to find Mangiapane a better opportunity,” noted LeBrun.
Teams like the Winnipeg Jets, Ottawa Senators, and St. Louis Blues have been mentioned as possible fits. Interestingly, the additional year on Mangiapane’s deal could actually appeal to those clubs. Especially since none of them currently sit in a playoff position.
For now, Mangiapane remains an Oiler. As Edmonton continues to work the phones in hopes of clearing cap space and giving the forward a fresh opportunity elsewhere.
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On the ice, the Oilers will shift their focus back to action when they face the San Jose Sharks on Thursday.
