Oilers Place Andrew Mangiapane on Waivers, Setting Stage for Trade Deadline Moves

The Edmonton Oilers have placed forward Andrew Mangiapane on waivers, signaling their intent to reshape the roster ahead of the March 6 NHL trade deadline. This move aims to create cap space and potentially acquire players who can bolster their playoff push.

Mangiapane’s Struggles in Edmonton

Mangiapane, 29, has recorded 14 points (7 goals and 7 assists) in 52 games with the Oilers this season. His production has declined since joining Edmonton, falling short of the 40-point seasons he previously achieved with the Calgary Flames. His plus/minus rating with the Oilers currently stands at -19.

The Oilers acquired Mangiapane hoping he would contribute consistent scoring outside of their core players – Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and Zach Hyman – but he has not found a consistent role in the top six forward lines. He is in the first year of a two-year contract with a $3.6 million annual salary.

Waivers and Cap Implications

By placing Mangiapane on waivers, the Oilers are giving other teams the opportunity to claim him off their roster. If another team claims him, they would assume his full salary. If he clears waivers, he can be assigned to the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors.

Moving Mangiapane to Bakersfield will save the Oilers $1.15 million in remaining cap space, providing them with greater financial flexibility to pursue trades. The Oilers also placed defenseman Alec Regula on waivers, which would free up around $700,000 in cap space.

Oilers’ Trade Deadline Targets

The Oilers are reportedly interested in adding both offensive firepower and defensive depth before the trade deadline. Insider Frank Seravalli has suggested that St. Louis Blues defenseman Justin Faulk is a potential target, but acquiring him would require the Oilers to first clear Mangiapane’s salary off the books, potentially by attaching a draft pick to the deal. Sporting News

Other Players on Waivers

In addition to Mangiapane and Regula, Robby Fabbri (St. Louis Blues), Luke Kunin (Florida Panthers), and Guillaume Brisebois (Vancouver Canucks) were also placed on waivers on Sunday. The Hockey News

Looking Ahead

The Oilers face a crucial decision in the coming days as they navigate the trade market. Successfully moving Mangiapane and potentially Regula will be key to creating the cap space needed to address their roster needs and develop a serious push for the Stanley Cup. The trade deadline is March 6th. Sports Illustrated