The Edmonton Oilers are looking to bolster their top-nine forward group and potentially move Andrew Mangiapane's $3.6 million contract before the March 6 trade deadline. Amidst speculation surrounding potential targets for the Oilers, an intriguing suggestion has surfaced: a possible swap involving Patrik Laine of the Montreal Canadiens.

Sportsnet insider Nick Kypreos recently included Laine on his trade board and questioned whether he would fit in Edmonton. Kypreos speculated that a deal could be struck between Edmonton and Montreal, considering that both Laine and Mangiapane are potentially on the trade block.

Laine, 27, is in the final year of his four-year, $34.8 million contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. He has been limited to just five games this season, recording one assist. Laine has been out of the Canadiens' lineup since mid-October, recovering from a core muscle injury.

Mangiapane, 29, is in the first year of his two-year, $7.2 million contract with the Oilers. However, his role with the team has diminished, resulting in reduced ice time. So far this season, the winger has six goals and 12 points in 47 games, averaging 12:54 of ice time per night. Mangiapane also has a full no-trade clause in his contract, but he is willing to waive it for a better opportunity.

Kypreos suggested that Montreal might be willing to include an asset to move Laine's contract. The Canadiens could also be willing to retain a significant portion (even up to 50 percent) of Laine's salary, as they have not used any retention slots and Laine's contract expires at the end of the season. Kypreos believes this move could free up cap space for Montreal to make a bigger move. He also noted that Laine, on an expiring contract, could be an attractive option for a playoff team seeking a low-cost scorer or a non-playoff team interested in evaluating him before potentially offering a long-term deal.

The Oilers are reportedly engaged in ongoing conversations with teams about Mangiapane, who is seeking a fresh start and a more prominent role than what he has been given in Edmonton. With potential openings in Toronto's top-six forward group, the Maple Leafs might also be interested in acquiring Mangiapane.

While a Laine-for-Mangiapane swap is purely speculative at this point, it presents an intriguing possibility for both the Oilers and the Canadiens. It remains to be seen whether these two teams will engage in serious discussions about such a trade.