Edmonton Oilers Make Major Free Agency Splash by Signing Andrew Mangiapane to Two-Year, $7.2 Million Contract Agreement

The Edmonton Oilers are wasting no time reshaping their roster after coming agonizingly close to hockey’s ultimate prize. In a move that could significantly bolster their top-six forward group, the Oilers have announced the signing of Andrew Mangiapane to a two-year contract worth $7.2 million. The deal, which carries an average annual value (AAV) of $3.6 million, is seen as a strategic play by General Manager Stan Bowman to add depth, scoring punch, and relentless energy to the team as they look to take that final step toward a Stanley Cup championship.

Mangiapane, a 28-year-old left winger known for his tenacity, versatility, and scoring ability, arrives in Edmonton after spending the entirety of his NHL career with the Calgary Flames. His move to their provincial rivals will no doubt spark debates, fuel the Battle of Alberta, and inject a familiar face into one of the league’s most heated rivalries.

For the Oilers, the addition of Mangiapane addresses several key needs. While Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Zach Hyman provided Edmonton with elite offensive production last season, the supporting cast struggled with consistency at times, particularly when it came to generating secondary scoring. Mangiapane, despite a modest 14-goal, 34-point output last season, brings a proven track record of contributing offense, playing with an edge, and delivering in clutch moments.

Oilers GM Stan Bowman spoke glowingly about the acquisition during a press conference following the signing announcement.

“Andrew’s a player that we’ve admired from afar for quite some time,” Bowman said. “He’s an active player. He’s competitive. He plays the game the right way, with intensity, structure, and an ability to finish plays. We believe he’ll thrive in our system and complement the skill players we have, especially with his ability to play up and down the lineup.”

Mangiapane’s journey to this moment is a testament to perseverance. Drafted in the sixth round (166th overall) by the Flames in 2015, the undersized winger had to prove himself at every level. His junior career with the Barrie Colts in the OHL showcased his offensive upside, and after working his way through the AHL ranks, he eventually carved out a significant role with Calgary.

His breakout came during the 2021-22 season when Mangiapane erupted for a career-high 35 goals and 55 points, establishing himself as one of the league’s most dangerous secondary scorers. His ability to create offense both at even strength and on special teams made him a coveted asset, and while his production has fluctuated since that standout season, his relentless forechecking, hockey IQ, and two-way game have remained constants.

For Edmonton, the deal represents both a calculated risk and an opportunity for tremendous upside. At a $3.6 million AAV, Mangiapane fits within the Oilers’ tight salary cap structure, providing affordability relative to his potential impact. The two-year term also offers flexibility, ensuring the club isn’t locked into a long-term commitment while the core remains intact and competitive windows are evaluated year by year.

The timing of the signing couldn’t be more pivotal. Coming off a heartbreaking loss in the Stanley Cup Final, the Oilers entered free agency determined to augment their roster with battle-tested players who can contribute immediately. Mangiapane’s playoff experience with Calgary, combined with his ability to excel in physical, high-pressure environments, made him a logical target.

“He’s the type of player you hate playing against, but love to have on your side,” Bowman continued. “That’s the mentality we’re looking to bring into our locker room — players who compete hard every night, who make life difficult for opponents, and who elevate their game when it matters most.”

The reaction among Oilers fans has been largely positive, with many praising Bowman for addressing an obvious need. The buzz surrounding the team’s offseason plan has intensified, with Mangiapane’s signing viewed as one of the boldest moves yet. While some fans have questioned bringing in a former Flame, the majority recognize that talent and competitiveness outweigh past allegiances when the Stanley Cup is within reach.

For Mangiapane, joining the Oilers represents both a fresh start and a chance to reignite his offensive production. Playing alongside the likes of McDavid and Draisaitl offers opportunities few wingers in the NHL can dream of. Whether deployed on the second line with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins or as part of a dynamic third line that drives depth scoring, Mangiapane’s versatility will give head coach Kris Knoblauch plenty of options.

Speaking to the media after signing, Mangiapane expressed his excitement about joining the Oilers and his readiness to embrace both the challenge and the scrutiny that comes with switching sides in the Battle of Alberta.

“I’ve always respected how hard the Oilers play and how much talent they have,” Mangiapane said. “The chance to be part of that, to contribute to something special, it’s an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I know there’s history between the teams, but at the end of the day, I’m here to win. That’s the focus.”

The Oilers’ offseason strategy appears to be unfolding as a calculated effort to build around their core, add depth without sacrificing flexibility, and infuse the roster with proven competitors. In addition to Mangiapane’s arrival, the team is expected to explore other depth signings, particularly on defense and in net, as they aim to solidify all areas of their lineup.

Looking ahead, expectations remain sky-high for Edmonton. With McDavid at the peak of his powers, Draisaitl continuing to produce at an elite level, and the supporting cast bolstered by players like Hyman, Evan Bouchard, and now Mangiapane, the Oilers are once again positioned as legitimate Cup contenders.

Yet, the signing of Mangiapane represents more than just adding skill — it symbolizes the team’s evolution into a group that understands the grit, sacrifice, and relentless work required to win it all. For an organization desperate to end a 34-year Stanley Cup drought, every move carries significant weight, and the addition of Andrew Mangiapane could be a missing piece to finally lifting Lord Stanley’s mug.

The Battle of Alberta may have a new, fascinating chapter, but for Oilers fans, the focus remains singular: winning, at all costs. With Mangiapane now in the fold, the journey continues — hungrier, grittier, and more determined than ever.