The Edmonton Oilers are making a notable lineup adjustment ahead of their matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks on January 12, 2026. Despite the team's recent success, head coach Kris Knoblauch is pulling rookie Ike Howard from the lineup and inserting veteran winger Andrew Mangiapane.
A Strategic Move for a Struggling Player
This decision appears to be a strategic play by the Oilers' management. Mangiapane, who has been a healthy scratch in five of the last six games, has struggled to find his form this season. In 40 games played, he has managed only 11 points, a disappointing output given he spent the first 25 games of the season in Edmonton's top six forward group.
The primary motive for his return is widely believed to be a trade showcase. With the NHL trade deadline looming, the Oilers are hoping Mangiapane can put together a couple of solid performances to generate interest from other teams across the league.
Opportunity Knocks in a Favourable Matchup
The game against Chicago presents a prime opportunity for such a showcase. Historically, the Oilers have dominated the Blackhawks, boasting a record of nine wins in their last ten meetings in Chicago. This favourable setting could allow Mangiapane to display his skills and potentially boost his trade value.
In goal for Edmonton tonight will be Connor Ingram, who gets the starting nod.
The Rookie Makes Way
Making room for Mangiapane is rookie Ike Howard, who is himself seeking to establish a foothold in the NHL. Howard has recorded three points in 21 games this season and is currently mired in a ten-game point drought. Since his recent recall from the American Hockey League (AHL), he has posted a minus-four rating over four contests.
The Oilers enter the game having secured five out of a possible six points in their last three outings, making Knoblauch's decision to tinker with a winning formula a clear signal of the organization's intent to address Mangiapane's situation through the trade market.
