Early returns on Oilers' new forward gives coach Knoblauch roster flexibility

On a night when he was playing in his 500th NHL game, Andrew Mangiapane scored his second goal in as many games on Saturday in Edmonton's 3-1 win over the rival Canucks.

Before the season started, Insider Jason Gregor asked Andrew Mangiapane what the primary factor was in the former-Flame's career-high 55-point season, when he scored 35 goals in 2021-22:

Well, it seems Andrew has plenty of confidence only two games into the 2025-26 season. He's demonstrating the scoring touch he showed in his career-high campaign with the Flames, after a dip in production in recent seasons.

The two big goals he's scored should do wonders for his confidence, goals that weren't run-of-the-mill tallies, but absolute snipes, which have him feeling very good about his game, and which in turn has head coach Kris Knoblauch feeling good about playing him in key situations.

Mangiapane is currently deployed in a middle-six role, and though his ice time has been relatively limited thus far, his strong play in limited minutes suggests he could earn more opportunities to play alongside elite centers like Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl.

Oilers management views Mangiapane as a versatile, top-six forward who can play both wings and contribute on special teams, including the penalty kill. His gritty style and willingness to elevate his intensity in the playoffs address a team need for players who can "raise their battle level," especially after losing players like Evander Kane and Corey Perry.

Having that kind of versatility benefits the the Oilers up and down the lineup, allowing the coach more flexibility when mixing and matching lines.