Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch made the big decision to scratch Andrew Mangiapane several times, leading to a major choice about the team’s roster today.
The struggling veteran player is now on waivers, along with defenseman Alec Regula. General manager Stan Bowman is working hard to reduce the active roster.
You don’t just let go of a player with a big salary of $3.6 million unless you have a plan for another move coming up soon.
Since joining the team in Alberta, Mangiapane has not lived up to his contract. Throughout his career in the NHL, he relied heavily on aggressive plays to consistently score points.
However, that kind of dependable performance disappeared this winter. He often didn’t score and lost his regular spot in the bottom six players.
The oilers have put Andrew Mangiapane and Alec Regula on waivers.
Edmonton really needs to clear up salary cap space to go after a strong top-four defenseman before Friday. The team’s defense needs urgent improvements.
Are the Edmonton Oilers getting ready for a big trade?
Putting a tall defenseman like Regula on waivers at the same time is a risky move. The management knows that a team in the Eastern Conference could pick him up right away.
But giving up some extra depth is necessary when there’s a real chance to win the Stanley Cup. The front office doesn’t want to see this great opportunity to win something big pass by.
Removing that heavy salary from the active roster changes everything for the trade deadline. Other professional scouts are aware that Edmonton is now ready to make big moves.
Knoblauch wants a strong offensive strategy that relies on perfect puck control and solid execution. He really needs players who can quickly transition the game from their own zone.
The #oilers have placed Andrew Mangiapane and Alec Regula on waivers
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) March 1, 2026
Being in a strong position at the top of the Pacific Division means you need to be very bold in your strategies. You really have to fill your top players with dependable talent to handle the tough challenges of the playoffs.
There are strong whispers about a trade happening for a skilled player who can fit well within the team. The team’s management must ensure that what comes in and goes out in terms of money is balanced perfectly.
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