The Edmonton Oilers are not on the verge of completing a trade involving veteran forward Andrew Mangiapane, according to a prominent NHL insider. Despite ongoing discussions with several teams, a significant hurdle remains.
Trade Talks Hit a Snag
Frank Seravalli of the Frankly Hockey podcast, speaking on Bob Stauffer's Oilers Now radio show, provided a clear update on the situation. "I don't think the Oilers are close on anything on Mangiapane," Seravalli stated. He indicated that while the team has been in contact with potential trade partners, the structure of Mangiapane's contract is proving to be a sticking point.
Seravalli specifically pointed to the second year remaining on Mangiapane's current deal as a "detriment." The 29-year-old winger is earning $3.6 million this season and is under contract for the same amount in 2026-27. Furthermore, Mangiapane holds a modified no-trade clause and must approve any potential move.
Market Interest Despite Challenges
This report follows initial news from Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman on December 29, 2025, that both Mangiapane and the Oilers were open to exploring a mutually beneficial trade. Friedman provided a more recent update on his 32 Thoughts podcast, suggesting that an eventual deal is likely.
"I do think the Oilers are going to be able to find a landing for Mangiapane," Friedman said. "It's one more year, it's $3.6 (million). I don't think it's going to be too hard. He has proven he can score." Friedman noted that some teams believe Mangiapane has been unlucky this season, suffering from poor on-ice shooting and save percentages that have contributed to his team-worst -17 plus-minus rating at even strength.
When asked by Stauffer about specific teams, Seravalli mentioned the Winnipeg Jets and New Jersey Devils as clubs that could use secondary scoring punch. Friedman speculated on a potential fit with the Anaheim Ducks, floating the idea of a swap for veteran center Ryan Strome, though he acknowledged the financial complexities given Strome's $5 million cap hit.
What the Oilers Are Seeking
Friedman also shed light on the type of player Edmonton might be looking for in return. He suggested the Oilers are seeking a player more suited to a bottom-six role, someone who would not necessarily expect to play on a line with superstars Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl—a role Mangiapane was increasingly being slotted into.
The insider reports from Seravalli and Friedman do not necessarily contradict each other. They paint a picture of a player with a discernible market, but one where finding the right fit—both in terms of contract exchange and roster need—may require more time. For the Oilers, the priority is likely to resolve the situation carefully, avoiding a scenario where an injury to Mangiapane would severely diminish his trade value or force the team to retain a large portion of his salary in any deal.
As of January 5, 2026, the situation remains in a holding pattern. While a trade before the NHL deadline seems probable, fans hoping for an immediate resolution will have to wait as General Manager Ken Holland and his staff work through the complexities of the market.
