The NHL trade deadline week introduced several changes to the team rosters, and one of the most significant changes for the Edmonton Oilers was the decision to separate from winger Andrew Mangiapane. The Chicago Blackhawks’ agreement was finalized at the last moment when Edmonton was seeking to restructure its forward lines in a trying time of the season.Mangiapane has come to the Oilers team with the hopes of providing scoring depth after the team’s star captain, Connor McDavid. Nevertheless, his production was not as expected to be wholly, and the winger later dropped off the ranks. The trade has also offered both teams an opportunity to take a new direction, as it gives the veteran forward a possible reset.
NHL star Andrew Mangiapane addresses Edmonton Oilers trade to Chicago Blackhawks
In an interview following the trade, Andrew Mangiapane said that his experience with the Edmonton Oilers had been difficult. The forward acknowledged that events had not gone as he had expected, but he is hopeful of starting a new chapter with the Chicago Blackhawks.The troubles Mangiapane faced this season were the opposite of the previous shows of his NHL career, especially the years he spent with the Calgary Flames, where he managed to achieve 35 goals in one season. In Edmonton, however, the odds of scoring were more difficult, and this restricted his influence in the line, ultimately bringing about a trade decision.Other players who joined the Oilers in the deal were Jason Dickinson of Chicago as a center and Colton Dach, a forward. The trade involved the inclusion of a first-round pick in the future in Edmonton, which indicates that the team is desperate to make some changes in its roster before the playoff run.In the case of Chicago, the acquisition of Mangiapane is a risk-free decision that may pay off if the winger regains his scoring touch. In the case of the Oilers, the trade is an indication of trying to carefully balance the team as they continue to help the team around Connor McDavid as the season goes on in the NHL.
