Insiders Link 2 Teams — Not Ducks — to an Oilers Mangiapane Trade

A recent report by Elliotte Friedman notes that the Anaheim Ducks might be poking around the Andrew Mangiapane trade situation in Edmonton. Friedman noted that the Oilers shouldn’t have too much trouble finding someone to take on the winger’s contract and said the Ducks have shown early interest. However, another insider sees a potentially better fit.

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Chris Johnston of The Athletic noted:

“Toronto is low on draft capital and knows it’s going to have a tough time chasing upgrades at the trade deadline as a result. The acquisition cost in this case will likely be negligible. Plus, Mangiapane is only one year removed from a season with the Washington Capitals that included some encouraging stretches of play.”

He adds that there’s definitely some risk built into this type of move. Mangiapane’s production has fallen off a cliff after a decent start this season. He’s lost all opportunities to play with Edmonton’s top stars and has been made a healthy scratch twice. “The last thing the Leafs need is another underperforming veteran forward eating up valuable cap space,” argues Johnston.

Related: Insider Says Oilers Have an Interested Taker in a Mangiapane Trade

However, the NHL insider isn’t prepared to completely rule out the idea, noting, “There’s also some logic to it, though.”

He cites Mangiapane’s favorable history with Leafs GM Brad Treliving, dating back to their time together in Calgary. It was there that the winger scored 35 goals in a single season. Johnston argued, “If you’re going to take a risk, it’s always easier to do it on a known commodity.”

Any Other Teams A Fit For Mangiapane?

Pierre LeBrun didn’t see the Ducks or the Maple Leafs as his most logical fit. He chose the Winnipeg Jets. LeBrun noted, “How about a team that was first overall in the league a year ago and is in dire need of help? Give me the Jets. They’re dying for any kind of secondary scoring.” LeBrun adds, “I think the fact Mangiapane has another year on his deal would actually be appealing to the Jets, whose playoff chances are certainly in trouble for this season but far from done.”

Next: Leafs–Oilers Trade Pitch Gains Attention — But Doesn’t Add Up