NHL Rumors: Oilers eye move-on from $7.2M winger after Stuart Skinner trade

The Oilers sent goaltender Stuart Skinner in a trade to Pittsburgh acquiring Tristan Jarry earlier this month. It seems the team is now approaching a crossroads with winger Andrew Mangiapane as roster competition intensifies and the team continues to get healthier.

Speaking on the latest episode of 32 Thoughts, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman suggested that Mangiapane could be a name to watch on the trade market because the fit in Edmonton has not materialized as hoped.

Friedman noted that Mangiapane skated on the fourth line during practice in Winnipeg on Sunday ahead of the Oilers’ matchup against the Jets which goes on to show his diminished role.

“I think there is an understanding there that if the Oilers can find something for Mangiapane with another team where he might have a bigger role, he would be willing to waive in that situation,” Friedman said.

He compared the situation to recent trades around the league involving players whose roles had stagnated including Phillip Danault’s previous move from Los Angeles and Mason Marchment’s change of scenery.

“I don't think it's like a hard and fast trade demand or anything like that, but I think there's just a realization that, like, to know, like Marchment, it just wasn't working in that spot,” the Insider clarified.

However, Friedman indicated there is a mutual understanding that if the Oilers identify a deal that offers Mangiapane a larger opportunity elsewhere, the winger would be open to waiving that protection.

“And if another situation can be found, I think Andrew Mangiapane would be willing to look at it. So we'll see where that develops over the next few days,” he added.

Mangiapane, who signed a two-year, $7.2 million contract with Edmonton last summer carrying a $3.6 million annual cap hit, holds a full no-trade clause for this season which runs until mid-June.

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Andrew Mangiapane will be moved to open up spots

The timing of the discussion is tied closely to Edmonton’s improving health and internal competition.

With younger players such as Ike Howard and Quinn Hutson earning more ice time and producing, the Oilers are facing tough lineup decisions. As a result, established veterans could see reduced roles and Andrew Mangiapane appears to be among those most affected.

“And in that situation, there are going to be guys who have to sit. There's going to be left less time for other guys, and I think Mangiapane is one of those who could potentially be moved to open up spots,” Friedman said.

Through 39 games this season, Mangiapane has recorded five goals and six assists along with a minus-16 rating.

While the production has fallen short of expectations for a player in his salary range, league sources caution that his value remains tied to the belief he could rebound offensively in a top-six role elsewhere.

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Edited by Anjum Rajonno