Oilers Place Mangiapane and Regula on Waivers, Recall Samanski and Howard

The Edmonton Oilers have placed forward Andrew Mangiapane and defenseman Alec Regula on waivers, signaling a shift in roster strategy as the team approaches the NHL trade deadline. Both players cleared waivers and have been assigned to the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors, according to the Edmonton Journal.

Roster Adjustments and Cap Relief

This move creates two roster spaces for the Oilers and, crucially, provides cap relief. Mangiapane’s assignment to the AHL saves approximately $1.15 million in cap space, whereas Regula’s saves around $700,000. The Oilers can also more efficiently manage the bonus components of contracts for Josh Samanski and Ike Howard as reported by the Edmonton Journal.

Mangiapane’s Performance and Contract

Mangiapane, 29, has struggled to find his footing with the Oilers this season, recording just seven goals and 14 points in 52 games with a -19 plus/minus. Heavy Sports notes that the Oilers had been actively trying to trade Mangiapane since late December, but were unable to find a suitable trade partner. His contract has one year remaining at $3.6 million. Throughout his 550-game NHL career, Mangiapane has 130 goals and 127 assists, with a career-best 35 goals in 2021-22 with Calgary.

Regula’s Role and Recent Activity

Regula, who has appeared in 29 games for the Oilers this season, has recorded three assists and a -16 plus/minus. He was recently on a conditioning stint with the Bakersfield Condors before being recalled ahead of Saturday’s game against the San Jose Sharks. Sportsnet reports that Regula has struggled during his time with the Oilers.

Samanski and Howard Recalled

The Oilers are expected to recall forwards Josh Samanski and Isaac Howard from the Condors. Samanski, 23, has shown promise with eight goals and 31 points in 44 games with Bakersfield, and even spent time on Leon Draisaitl’s line during his five-game NHL stint earlier this season. Howard has been equally impressive in the AHL, with 14 goals and 32 points in 30 games. He has appeared in 28 NHL games this season, scoring two goals and five points.

Upcoming Schedule

The Oilers’ schedule continues Tuesday against the Ottawa Senators, followed by a Friday night game against the Carolina Hurricanes. They then embark on a five-game road trip starting Sunday against the Vegas Golden Knights, with subsequent stops in Colorado, Dallas, and St. Louis.