Edmonton Oilers gave message to all new free agents, insider says

Andrew Mangiapane is the most recent in a list of free agent signings that didn't really pan out well, and now the Oilers are moving quickly to solve the situation with a trade. But Edmonton didn't give this message to just Mangiapane.

According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, the Oilers have told all their recent free agents during the recruitment process, if they come to Edmonton and it doesn't work out - they'll quickly make a trade for benefit of the team and player.

Mangiapane has just this year and next left on his contract, and if he continues playing at the current role he's in with the Oilers, he's going to put up one of his worst career seasons. He's on pace for only 22 points, and then it'll be hard to even secure another NHL contract above league minimum.

It's in Mangiapane's interest to be moved, and of course the Oilers would like to clear his $3.6M salary and find a more effective fit.

The fact that the Oilers sold these quick trades as part of the recruitment process is certainly interesting, and it does make sense.

Especially after the failed fits of Jeff Skinner, Viktor Arvidsson, and even Trent Frederic this season - the Oilers clearly see this as a priority. Perhaps they'd even ask other veterans with trade protection for a move, like Adam Henrique.

For their reputations across the league with handling new free agents, it's a positive the Oilers are willing to work with agents to find a fresh start - and a sign of good management that they're at least actively looking for solutions. Next year, they really need to learn from their mistakes on past July 1sts.