As free agency unfolds in 2025, the Edmonton Oilers took a focused and patient approach to building their roster for the upcoming season. While they missed out on top targets like Mitchell Marner and Nikolaj Ehlers, who signed with the Vegas Golden Knights and Carolina Hurricanes respectively, the Oilers aimed to strengthen their lineup by pursuing Brock Boeser before ultimately signing Andrew Mangiapane. The decision to go with Mangiapane highlights a strategic move that balances cost, team fit, and role versatility.
Although some fans questioned the signing due to Mangiapane’s modest offensive numbers and his reduced role with the Washington Capitals last year, the Oilers secured him on a two-year contract worth $3.6 million annually. Meanwhile, Boeser chose to remain with the Vancouver Canucks on a seven-year deal averaging $7.5 million per year. This financial contrast and Mangiapane’s potential contribution underscore why the Oilers’ decision could pay dividends.
Evaluating Mangiapane’s Role and Value Compared to Boeser
Andrew Mangiapane is seen as a middle-six winger who brings energy and defensive reliability, traits that have made him one of hockey’s most efficient two-way players in recent years. Despite a dip in his offensive production following a shoulder injury in 2023, his defensive prowess remains a key attribute. Comparing him with Boeser shows that while their offensive impact may be similar in play-driving metrics, Mangiapane offers more trust in defensive situations and greater responsibility in limiting opponents.
Boeser is known for his goal-scoring ability and finishing skills but relies more on his linemates to generate chances. On the other hand, Mangiapane possesses the qualities to elevate star center Leon Draisaitl’s performance, which could be crucial for Edmonton’s success. His finishing percentage has room to improve, but his expanded role with the Oilers presents an opportunity to regain his natural scoring touch and contribute significantly to the team’s offensive depth as they push toward the Stanley Cup Final.
“Andrew Mangiapane, signed 2x$3.6M by EDM, is a middle six energy winger who has unfortunately not had the prolific shot creation and finishing that made him one of hockey’s most efficient two-way wingers in the early 2020s since his 2023 shoulder injury. Reclamation project.” —JFresh, Hockey Analyst
Models analyzing the signing suggest Mangiapane’s deal is perfectly fair for a top-nine forward but hint at potential upside if he is utilized in a top-six role. His down year last season negatively impacts projections, but a bounce-back combined with his defensive strengths could make this a valuable acquisition for Edmonton.
“A perfectly fair deal for Andrew Mangiapane as a top nine guy, but there’s probably some upside here if the Oilers use him in a top six role.” —dom, Hockey Statistician
The Oilers avoided the risk associated with Boeser’s long-term, high-cost contract, which might have posed salary cap challenges. Mangiapane’s more affordable contract provides flexibility while adding a reliable, defensively responsible winger who can contribute offensively as his confidence grows.
Addressing the Loss of Key Players and Future Prospects
The Oilers have faced significant roster changes heading into the 2025-26 season, losing five important players. Veterans such as Corey Perry, who signed with the Los Angeles Kings, Connor Brown joining the New Jersey Devils, John Klingberg moving to the San Jose Sharks, and Viktor Arvidsson traded to the Boston Bruins have all departed. Jeff Skinner also left in free agency. Each of these players brought a unique skill set and value to Edmonton’s lineup, creating questions about how well the team can replace this depth.
While Mangiapane cannot replace these departures alone, the Oilers can rely on internal growth from promising players. Matthew Savoie is expected to take a significant step forward and play a larger role, while newcomer David Tomasek, signed from Europe on a one-year deal, may provide additional depth scoring. These internal pieces, combined with Mangiapane’s addition, offer a foundation for the Oilers’ evolving roster.
The team still has time during the offseason to assess and make further acquisitions, but by securing Mangiapane over Boeser, Edmonton made a proactive choice that manages salary cap constraints and team dynamics. Fans will need patience as the Oilers work toward assembling a championship-caliber squad aiming for their first Stanley Cup Final victory since 1990.
As the 2025-26 NHL season nears, continued coverage and analysis will be essential for tracking the Oilers’ progress and roster development.