Edmonton Oilers sign Andrew Mangiapane to $7.2M deal after Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl recruitment push

The Edmonton Oilers made one of the most talked-about moves in 2025 NHL free agency by signing forward Andrew Mangiapane to a two-year, $7.2 million contract. The 28-year-old joins a high-powered Oilers team, thanks in large part to direct recruiting efforts from superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

Oilers add Mangiapane in free agency after key role played by McDavid and Draisaitl

After a brief one-year stint with the Washington Capitals, Mangiapane hit the open market on July 1 and quickly became a target for multiple playoff contenders. However, it was the Oilers who sealed the deal—thanks to their leadership group taking matters into their own hands. According to Mangiapane, both McDavid and Draisaitl personally reached out during the free agency period, which had a major impact on his decision to sign with Edmonton.“People pulling you this way and that way and wanting you here or there. But when you have those two caliber players calling you, you tend to listen,” Mangiapane said during an appearance on Oilers Now with Bob Stauffer.

Mangiapane finished the 2024–25 season with 14 goals and 14 assists for the Capitals. Prior to that, he spent seven seasons with the Calgary Flames, where he built a reputation as a hardworking, two-way winger with solid offensive upside.

His career-best season came in 2021–22, when he recorded 35 goals.With Edmonton, Mangiapane is expected to bring reliable secondary scoring, versatility in the middle-six forward group, and the ability to contribute on both special teams. The Oilers have been seeking more offensive balance behind their top line, and this signing directly addresses that need.Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman said the organization has admired Mangiapane’s game for years, noting his work ethic and smart positioning as key assets.“I think he's got the ability to play in our top six,” Bowman said.Also Read: Connor McDavid trade rumors heat up as 9-year old Canucks fan’s bold wish goes viral amid Oilers uncertaintyAs the Oilers continue to chase a Stanley Cup, adding a proven NHL forward like Mangiapane, especially with buy-in from McDavid and Draisaitl marks a strategic move. With a rising salary cap and a short two-year term, the deal carries both low risk and high reward for Edmonton.