Edmonton Oilers Lock In Andrew Mangiapane With Smart Two-Year Contract Worth $3.6 Million Annually To Boost Offensive Depth
The Edmonton Oilers continue to shape their roster for another Stanley Cup push, and their latest move adds proven scoring depth with playoff experience. On Tuesday, the Oilers officially announced they have signed forward Andrew Mangiapane to a two-year contract carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $3.6 million.
It’s a calculated, affordable move for an Oilers team eager to stay competitive while managing their salary cap. The addition of Mangiapane not only injects versatility and scoring potential into Edmonton’s forward group but also signals a continued emphasis on surrounding their core stars with reliable contributors.
For Mangiapane, this marks a new chapter after spending the entirety of his NHL career with the Calgary Flames. Drafted by Calgary in the sixth round of the 2015 NHL Draft, the 28-year-old winger developed into a consistent offensive threat, known for his high work rate, responsible two-way play, and ability to produce in key moments.
The Ontario native posted solid numbers with the Flames, tallying 40 points (14 goals, 26 assists) in 75 games during the 2024-25 NHL season. Though his scoring output has seen slight fluctuations in recent years, Mangiapane remains a dependable middle-six winger capable of impacting games on both ends of the ice.
The Oilers’ decision to bring Mangiapane across the Battle of Alberta rivalry is also a testament to how the franchise continues to prioritize depth and experience to complement their superstar duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Edmonton’s offense has long been powered by those two generational talents, but the difference between regular season success and postseason glory often hinges on the contributions of secondary scorers.
In that regard, Mangiapane offers precisely what Edmonton needs. His career-best season came in 2021-22, when he scored 35 goals and totaled 55 points in 82 games for Calgary. Though he hasn’t quite replicated that level of production, his 5-on-5 scoring rates remain respectable, and his defensive responsibility makes him an appealing option for head coach Kris Knoblauch in various situations.
With this two-year deal at $3.6 million per season, the Oilers avoid a long-term financial commitment while adding a veteran who can slot into the middle six, contribute on special teams, and bring valuable playoff experience to a roster desperate to clear the final hurdle. Edmonton’s management understands their Stanley Cup window remains wide open but navigating the salary cap landscape requires precision, particularly with McDavid and Draisaitl commanding significant cap space and several key players seeking raises.
For Mangiapane, the move to Edmonton presents both a fresh opportunity and an intriguing challenge. The forward leaves behind nearly a decade with the Flames, the team that drafted and developed him, but joins an Oilers squad with legitimate championship aspirations. The transition will test his ability to adapt quickly, but his familiarity with the Pacific Division and Canadian market should ease the adjustment process.
It’s worth noting that Mangiapane has been at his best in high-intensity settings. His standout performance at the 2021 IIHF World Championship, where he helped lead Team Canada to gold and earned tournament MVP honors, showcased his ability to rise to the occasion. The Oilers hope that same competitive edge and scoring touch translate into crucial postseason production.
While Mangiapane’s offensive numbers have varied in recent seasons, his underlying metrics reflect a player who generates quality scoring chances and contributes positively to puck possession. His versatility allows him to play both wings, offering flexibility for the coaching staff as they configure line combinations throughout the year.
From a roster construction standpoint, this signing aligns with Edmonton’s broader offseason strategy. The Oilers have focused on retaining core pieces while selectively targeting players who can bolster their depth, especially in the bottom six. With Mangiapane in the fold, the Oilers add an experienced NHL forward capable of providing secondary scoring, strong forechecking, and defensive reliability—elements critical to sustaining success over an 82-game season and deep playoff run.
Moreover, the manageable $3.6 million AAV ensures the Oilers maintain cap flexibility. Edmonton’s front office, led by General Manager Ken Holland, understands the importance of balancing top-end talent with affordable, effective role players. Mangiapane’s deal reflects a reasonable market rate for a proven NHL forward with nearly 400 games of experience and a track record of contributing at both ends of the ice.
The reaction from Oilers fans has been largely positive, recognizing Mangiapane’s potential to fill an immediate need on the wing and provide insurance in case of injuries or performance dips elsewhere in the lineup. His familiarity with the intense Alberta hockey atmosphere adds further intrigue, as his first Battle of Alberta appearance in Oilers colors is sure to carry extra emotion.
For Mangiapane, this represents a chance to reinvigorate his career within a new system and alongside elite playmakers. The opportunity to play with superstars like McDavid, Draisaitl, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins could unlock another level to his game, especially if he finds chemistry on one of Edmonton’s scoring lines. His high hockey IQ, quick release, and willingness to play in the dirty areas make him a potential asset on both the power play and penalty kill.
The Oilers’ signing also underscores the evolving nature of the Battle of Alberta rivalry. While some fans may bristle at the notion of a former Flame joining the blue and orange, hockey is ultimately a business, and winning remains the top priority for both players and organizations. Mangiapane’s decision to cross enemy lines reflects his desire to compete for a championship and contribute to a team with a legitimate shot at glory.
From a broader league perspective, this move adds another layer of intrigue to the Pacific Division landscape. The Oilers, already a top contender, strengthen their forward depth, while the Flames lose a familiar face and steady contributor. The dynamics of the division continue to evolve, with each team jockeying for position in what promises to be a fiercely competitive Western Conference.
In the coming weeks, attention will turn to training camp, where Mangiapane will begin integrating into the Oilers’ system. His performance during camp and preseason games will be closely monitored as fans and analysts alike assess how he fits into Edmonton’s lineup. Whether he earns a top-six role or slots into a checking line, Mangiapane’s ability to adapt and contribute in multiple situations will be key to maximizing his impact.
As for the financial details, the $3.6 million cap hit over two years represents solid value for a player with Mangiapane’s skill set and experience. The short-term nature of the contract offers flexibility for both sides, allowing the Oilers to reassess after two seasons and providing Mangiapane an opportunity to boost his market value ahead of his next potential deal.
Ultimately, the Oilers’ acquisition of Andrew Mangiapane reflects a thoughtful, measured approach to roster building. In a league where depth, versatility, and playoff experience often separate contenders from pretenders, adding a player like Mangiapane addresses key needs without sacrificing long-term cap stability.
For Oilers fans, the hope is that this signing proves to be one of those quiet, savvy moves that pays dividends when the games matter most. If Mangiapane can rediscover his scoring touch, bring energy to the lineup, and help Edmonton push deeper into the playoffs, this contract could become a pivotal piece of the Oilers’ championship puzzle.
As the NHL offseason continues, Edmonton remains focused on fine-tuning its roster, with the addition of Andrew Mangiapane marking another step toward building a team capable of hoisting the Stanley Cup.