Amidst growing speculation and swirling trade rumors, the Edmonton Oilers' General Manager, Stan Bowman, is reportedly taking a more active role in facilitating a trade for forward Andrew Mangiapane. The 29-year-old winger, who signed a two-year, $7.2 million contract with the Oilers on July 1, 2025, has struggled to find consistency and ice time in Edmonton, leading to increased speculation about his future with the team.
Mangiapane's diminished role culminated in a healthy scratch during Monday night's game against the Winnipeg Jets, further fueling rumors of an impending trade. After starting the season in a prominent top-six role, his ice time has steadily declined, averaging 15:43 in October, 13:26 in November, and just 11:34 in December. Through 39 games this season, he has recorded 11 points (5 goals, 6 assists) and holds a team-worst minus-16 rating.
Several factors contribute to the Oilers' willingness to explore trade options for Mangiapane. The strong performance of prospects Isaac Howard and Quinn Hutson in the AHL with the Bakersfield Condors has put pressure on the roster. The impending return of Kasperi Kapanen from a knee injury also creates more competition for roster spots. Furthermore, the Oilers are getting healthier, with veterans like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Zach Hyman, Mattias Janmark, and Jack Roslovic returning from injury.
According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, Mangiapane possesses a full no-trade clause until mid-June 2026 but may be willing to waive it for an opportunity to play a more significant role with another team. Friedman noted similarities between Mangiapane's situation and those of Phillip Danault and Mason Marchment, who were traded to provide them with a change of scenery and increased playing time.
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal suggests the Winnipeg Jets, Calgary Flames, and Pittsburgh Penguins as potential destinations for Mangiapane. The Toronto Maple Leafs, who reportedly showed interest in Mangiapane during free agency, could also re-emerge as a suitor.
The Oilers will likely aim to resolve Mangiapane's situation before the NHL pauses for the 2026 Winter Olympics in February. However, moving Mangiapane's $3.6 million cap hit may prove challenging, given his recent struggles. Some analysts suggest the Oilers might consider swapping Mangiapane for an overpaid, underperforming player from another team to address their need for depth.
Despite Mangiapane's struggles in Edmonton, advanced statistics indicate that the Oilers have performed well during his five-on-five minutes, controlling a significant percentage of shot attempts, expected goals, scoring chances, and high-danger chances. This suggests that Mangiapane's struggles may be more attributable to his deployment and role within the team than a complete decline in his abilities.
The situation remains fluid, and it is unclear where Mangiapane will ultimately land. However, it is evident that the Oilers are actively working to find a resolution that benefits both the player and the team.
