Oilers Navigate Roster Moves as Mangiapane Clears Waivers
The Edmonton Oilers find themselves in a pivotal roster management situation after forward Andrew Mangiapane successfully cleared waivers on Monday. This procedural move has significant implications for the team's salary cap flexibility and trade deadline strategy as they seek to bolster their lineup for a playoff push.
Mangiapane's AHL Assignment and Cap Implications
Following his waiver clearance, Mangiapane was assigned to the Bakersfield Condors, Edmonton's American Hockey League affiliate. The 29-year-old winger participated in just one shift during Tuesday's game against the Colorado Eagles, a necessary administrative step to maintain his eligibility for potential recall or trade before Friday's deadline.
This marks Mangiapane's first minor league assignment in eight years, dating back to his time as a Calgary Flames prospect with the Stockton Heat. The Oilers' primary motivation for this move is financial: by burying Mangiapane's contract in the AHL, the team saves $1.15 million in cap space. This maneuver proved immediately beneficial, helping facilitate the recent acquisition of defenseman Connor Murphy from the Chicago Blackhawks.
General Manager Stan Bowman had initially placed Mangiapane on waivers hoping another team might claim the forward and assume his $3.6 million cap hit, which extends through next season. With no takers emerging, the Oilers now face the challenge of potentially attaching trade sweeteners to move Mangiapane's contract entirely.
The Search for a Third-Line Center
With additional cap flexibility now available, Edmonton has turned its attention to acquiring a reliable third-line center. This position has become a priority as the team looks to strengthen its forward depth for postseason competition.
The ideal candidate would likely slot between wingers Vasily Podkolzin and either Kasperi Kapanen or Trent Frederic, providing both defensive responsibility and offensive contribution. To facilitate such a trade while also moving Mangiapane's contract, the Oilers recognize they may need to include draft capital or prospect assets in any deal.
Potential trade packages could involve Edmonton's third-round selection in the 2026 draft or possibly a developing player from their system. The team also holds their 2026 second-round pick, which could become part of negotiations for higher-profile targets.
Nic Roy Emerges as Prime Target
Among potential acquisitions, Toronto Maple Leafs center Nic Roy has emerged as a particularly appealing option for the Oilers. The 29-year-old forward brings several attractive qualities to the table:
- Stanley Cup championship experience with the Vegas Golden Knights
- Right-handed shot with substantial size at 215 pounds
- Affordable $3 million cap hit with another year remaining on his contract
- Familiarity to Oilers players from playoff matchups against Vegas
Roy has established himself as a consistent 30-point producer throughout his career, though he has managed just 20 points in 58 games with Toronto this season. His availability may increase as the Maple Leafs consider moving veteran John Tavares to the third-line center role next season, potentially making Roy expendable.
The acquisition cost for Roy could involve Mangiapane's contract plus additional assets, possibly including Edmonton's 2026 second-round pick and a prospect. Such a trade would address Edmonton's immediate need while providing Toronto with future assets and cap relief.
Injury Update: Janmark Undergoes Surgery
In related roster news, Oilers winger Mattias Janmark is scheduled for shoulder surgery on Wednesday. The procedure addresses a chronic issue that has bothered the forward for several years.
Janmark is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season—approximately 21 games—and could potentially be unavailable into the playoffs, which begin in the third week of April. This development further underscores Edmonton's need to add forward depth as they prepare for postseason competition.
The coming days will prove crucial for the Oilers' front office as they navigate the trade deadline landscape. With Mangiapane's situation clarified through the waiver process, the team can now focus on executing strategic moves to strengthen their roster for what they hope will be a deep playoff run.
