Oilers Trade Rumors Emerge After Forward's Healthy Scratch in Jets Game

The Edmonton Oilers are navigating a crowded forward group, and one of the team’s newcomers this season might be on the way out following Monday’s development.

Following his healthy scratch for the game against the Winnipeg Jets to start the week, Oilers forward Andrew Mangiapane’s place in the rotation is in danger.

The 29-year-old joined Edmonton in the offseason as a free agent from the Washington Capitals on a two-year, $7.2 million contract, but with key players such as Zach Hyman returning to the lineup during the past few weeks and young AHL talent pushing for minutes, Mangiapane’s first season with the club may be nearing an early exit.

After a promising start with 10 points in 28 games, his production and usage have sharply declined, with Mangiapane scoring only one point in the last 11 games.

The Oilers’ decision to remove Mangiapane from the lineup on Monday followed a stretch where he played under 11 minutes in three of four appearances, not even reaching 10 minutes in two of those three outings.

According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, reporting on Monday’s episode of the “32 Thoughts” podcast, Mangiapane’s shrinking role and Edmonton’s improving health could lead to a break in the relationship.

“I think Mangiapane is one of those who could potentially be moved to open up spots,” Friedman said. “We’ll see how it plays out.”

Mangiapane’s fourth-line usage and minus-16 rating have opened the door for prospects Isaac Howard and Quinn Hutson, who are excelling in the AHL’s Bakersfield. Howard has 20 points in 15 AHL games, while Hutson has 30 in 25 contests through Monday.

The Edmonton Oilers celebrate a goal scored by forward Andrew Mangiapane (88).Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

With Edmonton eyeing ways to add depth elsewhere in the roster, a Mangiapane trade could be good for both the Oilers and their forward.

Friedman noted that Mangiapane, in fact, may be open to waiving his no-trade clause for the right fit if the Oilers can find suitors for him.

“I think there is an understanding that if the Oilers could find something for Mangiapane with another team—where he might have a bigger role—he would be willing to waive,” Friedman said. “If another situation can be found, I think Mangiapane would be willing to look at it.”

The Oilers are 20-14-6 and will host the Boston Bruins on Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. ET.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 30, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Oilers Trade Rumors Emerge After Forward’s Healthy Scratch in Jets Game

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