Insider: Oilers set up trade deal with Andrew Mangiapane

The Edmonton Oilers signed Andrew Mangiapane to a two-year, $3.6 million AAV contract this offseason, but his performance has seemingly forced the organization’s hand. The forward is expected to be traded in the coming days, but rumors are everywhere that a possible move is imminent.

Sources like OilersNation, the Edmonton Journal’s Cult of Hockey, Pro Hockey Rumours, The Fourth Period and NHL insiders like Frank Seravalli and David Pagnotta are all picking up on the story that Mangiapane could be on his way.

With just 12 points in 49 games this season, Mangiapane has often been a healthy scratch. As a result, he is looking for a better opportunity, and both parties are reportedly open to that, despite his no-movement clause being something that could prevent a trade from happening.

The Fourth Period reported that the Oilers remain in talks with “a few teams,” and the expectation is that he will certainly be moved before the deadline. The delay may be due to the team’s limitations and should use his salary for a corresponding move.

Frank Seravalli said on Frankly Hockey that the Oilers “cannot acquire a trade deadline deal between now and Friday without moving him first.” He suggested a deal could be completed in the next three or four days, freeing up about $3 million in cap space for this season and next. Seravalli says the lack of a deal is not due to a lack of trying. It was a stretch to move the contract, and the Oilers may have to foreclose on an asset if they can’t move him straight up. Edmonton is trying to avoid that scenario.

Teams to watch out for in the Mangiapane talks

Previous reports had linked Mangiapane to the Winnipeg Jets, Ottawa Senators, St. Louis Blues, Boston Bruins and Vancouver Canucks. With the Oilers reportedly looking at Rasmus Ristolainen, Mangiapane could be part of that trade.

No deal has reportedly been signed and this may not be one of the trades analysts say was made during the Olympic break. Momentum is increasing now that the trading halt has been lifted.

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