“Edmonton Oilers Bolster Forward Depth, Sign Andrew Mangiapane to 2-Year Deal in Strategic Free Agency Move”

The Edmonton Oilers are not sitting idle after a deep playoff run that reignited hopes of capturing a Stanley Cup. In yet another move signaling their aggressive pursuit of postseason success, the Oilers have signed veteran winger Andrew Mangiapane to a two-year contract. The signing may not carry the splash of a blockbuster deal, but it echoes the kind of depth-conscious, strategic addition that separates contenders from champions. Mangiapane brings speed, grit, and scoring touch to a roster already flush with elite offensive firepower, and his arrival adds another layer of versatility to a forward group with championship aspirations.

Mangiapane, 28, is a name that has become familiar to Western Conference fans over the past several years. A former sixth-round pick of the Calgary Flames, his evolution from undersized long shot to reliable NHL contributor is a story of persistence, tenacity, and a well-rounded game. He enjoyed a breakout season in 2021–22 when he scored 35 goals, but even in the years since, where he’s fallen short of that offensive benchmark, he remained a valuable piece thanks to his relentless forechecking, ability to drive possession, and commitment to responsible two-way play. For the Oilers, who have at times relied too heavily on their top stars to carry the scoring load, Mangiapane represents a meaningful step toward balance.

The two-year term is indicative of how both sides view this agreement. For Mangiapane, it’s a chance to prove himself again in a new environment—one where he may benefit greatly from playing alongside one of the most offensively potent rosters in the league. For the Oilers, the deal offers short-term flexibility and the chance to evaluate his fit without a long-term commitment. The contract reportedly carries a reasonable cap hit, further underscoring the low-risk, high-reward nature of the signing.

General Manager Jeff Jackson and the Oilers’ front office have made it clear that they are building a team that can withstand the grind of the playoffs. In previous years, Edmonton’s top-heavy roster meant that if Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl were neutralized, the offense sputtered. Adding a player like Mangiapane helps mitigate that vulnerability. He’s not just a depth body; he’s a legitimate middle-six option who can move up and down the lineup, kill penalties, and chip in offensively. His arrival may allow the Oilers to spread their talent more evenly across lines, creating matchup nightmares for opposing teams.

Mangiapane’s numbers dipped last season with the Flames, finishing with 14 goals and 26 points in 75 games, but context matters. Calgary struggled to find consistency, especially offensively, and Mangiapane often found himself bouncing around different line combinations. A change of scenery, combined with the opportunity to play with skilled players in a more structured offensive system, could be exactly what he needs to reignite his game. His previous success shows he has the ability to produce, and he now finds himself in an environment where he won’t be expected to carry the load, but rather complement it.

From a stylistic standpoint, Mangiapane fits seamlessly into the type of game the Oilers want to play. His skating is a standout trait, and in a league that increasingly values speed and transition, he can thrive in Edmonton’s up-tempo system. He also brings a scrappy edge and isn’t afraid to get involved in the dirty areas of the ice, something that’s particularly valuable come playoff time. His defensive metrics are solid, and he’s consistently posted positive possession numbers throughout his career. That means he’s not just a player who benefits from good teammates—he actually helps drive play.

Perhaps more importantly, Mangiapane knows what it takes to play in high-pressure situations. Though he hasn’t yet enjoyed a deep playoff run like the one Edmonton had this past spring, his international experience with Team Canada—including a gold medal at the 2021 IIHF World Championship where he was named tournament MVP—demonstrates his ability to rise to the occasion. It’s those kinds of intangibles that may not show up on a stat sheet but resonate in the locker room and on the bench.

His presence also creates healthy competition within the Oilers’ forward group. Players like Dylan Holloway, Warren Foegele, and Ryan McLeod are all looking to carve out consistent roles, and the addition of a veteran like Mangiapane pushes everyone to be better. Depth is no longer a luxury in today’s NHL—it’s a necessity. Injuries, slumps, and fatigue are inevitable over the course of an 82-game season and a long playoff journey. Having a player who can be plugged into different roles, and do so effectively, is a tremendous asset.

From a leadership standpoint, Mangiapane brings maturity and professionalism to a group that has grown significantly over the past few seasons. With veterans like Zach Hyman and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins already in the fold, the Oilers have quietly built a core of battle-tested players who understand the stakes and demand accountability. Mangiapane, though quiet and reserved, is known for his work ethic and commitment to the team-first mentality. Those traits are often contagious, and they align perfectly with the culture Edmonton is trying to establish under head coach Kris Knoblauch.

The reaction to the signing has been largely positive from Oilers fans, many of whom remember Mangiapane as a thorn in their side during Battle of Alberta showdowns. Now, the hope is that he can deliver similar impact—but this time in Oilers blue and orange. For a fanbase desperate for another championship, every move is scrutinized through the lens of “does this help us win now?” In this case, the answer appears to be a resounding yes.

Beyond Mangiapane, the Oilers’ offseason has been defined by calculated decisions. From bringing in additional coaching support to re-signing key pieces and maintaining cap flexibility, there’s a clear sense of purpose guiding the organization. The team is no longer content with moral victories or close calls—they’re chasing the ultimate prize. And with McDavid and Draisaitl squarely in their primes, the urgency has never been higher. Moves like the Mangiapane signing don’t just improve the on-ice product—they send a message. Edmonton is all-in.

While there are no guarantees in hockey, smart roster construction gives teams the best chance at sustained success. The Oilers are learning from past missteps and building a lineup that doesn’t just rely on star power but supports it. Mangiapane may not steal headlines, but he could be the kind of piece that helps push the team over the top. Whether he ends up as a third-line sparkplug or earns time alongside one of Edmonton’s marquee names, his ability to contribute in multiple facets makes him a valuable chess piece.

As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how these new additions gel. Chemistry is a critical element in a long season, and the Oilers will need to strike the right balance across lines and pairings. But in terms of raw ingredients, they’ve assembled a group that looks more complete than it has in years. And with Mangiapane now in the fold, the Oilers have added another layer of skill, experience, and hunger to an already potent mix.

The coming months will determine just how impactful this move becomes, but for now, the Oilers appear to have made a shrewd addition at a bargain price. In a league defined by parity and razor-thin margins, every smart acquisition matters. Andrew Mangiapane may not be the final piece of the puzzle, but he’s undoubtedly a piece that makes the picture clearer. As Edmonton continues its climb toward the summit of the NHL, signings like this one show that the franchise is not only dreaming big—but building smart.