The Edmonton Oilers signed forwards Andrew Mangiapane and Curtis Lazar to new contracts, strengthening their roster for the upcoming season.

As the Edmonton Oilers prepare for another competitive NHL season, the team has taken decisive steps to solidify its forward group by signing Andrew Mangiapane and Curtis Lazar to new contracts. These signings represent more than just roster moves—they are strategic pieces in the Oilers’ quest to contend deep into the playoffs while building around superstar Connor McDavid.

In this article, we’ll explore who Andrew Mangiapane and Curtis Lazar are, the details and implications of their new deals, and how their roles fit into the Oilers’ overall team structure and ambitions.

Background: Edmonton Oilers’ Roster Context

The Edmonton Oilers are one of the NHL’s most exciting teams, led by Connor McDavid, a generational talent widely regarded as the best player in the world. Alongside McDavid is Leon Draisaitl, another elite forward who forms the nucleus of the team’s offensive power. However, building a championship-caliber team requires depth and versatility beyond just two stars.

In recent years, the Oilers have been working to improve their supporting cast, especially their forward depth, which has seen various rotations of players filling secondary and tertiary scoring roles. The offseason signings of Andrew Mangiapane and Curtis Lazar signal the team’s commitment to strengthening these layers.

Who is Andrew Mangiapane?

Andrew Mangiapane, 28, is a forward known for his tenacity, speed, and scoring ability. Originally drafted by the Calgary Flames in 2015, Mangiapane has built a reputation as a skilled winger capable of creating offensive opportunities while playing a responsible two-way game.

Career Highlights

• Mangiapane broke out in recent NHL seasons as a reliable goal scorer, consistently putting up 20+ goals.

• Known for his aggressive style, he pressures defenses effectively and plays with a high compete level.

• His performance with Calgary made him a sought-after free agent, and the Oilers saw an opportunity to bolster their wing depth.

Fit with the Oilers

Mangiapane’s skill set complements the Oilers’ style of play. His ability to create scoring chances, combined with his experience in high-pressure situations, makes him a valuable asset for Edmonton. Moreover, his speed and work ethic align well with head coach Jay Woodcroft’s system, which emphasizes pace and aggressive forechecking.

Who is Curtis Lazar?

Curtis Lazar, 28, is a versatile forward known for his grit, physicality, and penalty-killing ability. Drafted 17th overall in the 2013 NHL Draft by the Ottawa Senators, Lazar has developed into a reliable bottom-six forward who can play center or wing.

Career Highlights

• Lazar is recognized for his strong defensive play, making him a key figure in penalty kill units.

• His physical style and energy contribute to the team’s overall intensity and depth.

• Over the years, he has shown adaptability by playing various roles depending on the team’s needs.

Fit with the Oilers

For the Oilers, Lazar brings much-needed energy and versatility. His ability to play multiple forward positions offers coach flexibility in line combinations. Additionally, his penalty-killing prowess bolsters Edmonton’s special teams, addressing an area that has occasionally struggled.

Details of the Contracts

While exact terms of the contracts have not been publicly disclosed in full detail, sources indicate that both players signed deals designed to keep them with the Oilers through the upcoming season(s), providing cost-effective depth for the club.

Andrew Mangiapane’s Contract

• Expected to be a multi-year deal reflecting his value as a consistent secondary scorer.

• Salary likely in the range appropriate for a middle-six winger with scoring upside.

• Contract signals the Oilers’ confidence in Mangiapane as a key contributor.

Curtis Lazar’s Contract

• Likely a shorter-term deal focused on maintaining roster flexibility.

• Structured to reward his role as a penalty killer and energy forward.

• Reflects the Oilers’ desire to keep a reliable, versatile depth player.

Strategic Significance of the Signings

Addressing Depth Concerns

One of the Oilers’ challenges in past seasons has been the lack of consistent secondary scoring beyond their top stars. Adding Mangiapane gives Edmonton another proven scorer who can help alleviate pressure on McDavid and Draisaitl.

Similarly, Lazar’s signing ensures that the Oilers maintain toughness and defensive reliability in their bottom six. His penalty-killing ability and physicality provide balance to the lineup.

Supporting McDavid’s Championship Window

Connor McDavid is in his prime, and the Oilers are keen to build a supporting cast that can maximize his impact. The signings reflect a broader strategy to create a well-rounded team that can support McDavid in every zone.

Impact on the Team’s Depth Chart

Forward Lines

With Mangiapane and Lazar signed, the Oilers’ forward group looks more balanced heading into training camp.

• Mangiapane is expected to slot into the wing on one of the top two lines, providing scoring punch.

• Lazar is likely to play in the bottom six, bringing energy and defensive responsibility.

This mix of skill and grit gives Edmonton the flexibility to adapt to injuries or matchup challenges during the long NHL season.

Special Teams

Both players add value to Edmonton’s special teams.

• Mangiapane’s offensive skills could translate to power-play opportunities.

• Lazar’s defensive acumen makes him a mainstay on the penalty kill.

Improving special teams is critical for playoff success, making these signings doubly important.

What Fans and Analysts Are Saying

The signings have been met with a positive response from the Oilers’ fanbase and hockey analysts alike.

• Many fans appreciate the acquisition of Mangiapane, viewing him as a player who can contribute immediately.

• Analysts praise Lazar’s versatility and note that reliable bottom-six forwards are often undervalued but vital for playoff runs.

• The contracts are seen as prudent moves that balance talent acquisition with salary cap management.

How This Fits into Bowman’s Overall Roster Plan

Stan Bowman, the Oilers’ General Manager, has emphasized the importance of building a deep and balanced roster that can support McDavid and contend for the Stanley Cup.

The signings of Mangiapane and Lazar fit neatly into this vision:

• Providing secondary scoring and toughness without compromising cap flexibility.

• Keeping the team competitive in all areas, including offense, defense, and special teams.

• Maintaining a mix of veteran experience and youthful energy.

Challenges Ahead and What to Watch

While the signings are positive, the Oilers still face challenges:

• Integration: How quickly Mangiapane and Lazar adapt to the Oilers’ system will be crucial.

• Chemistry: Finding the right line combinations and roles for both players will be a focus in training camp.

• Health: Injuries remain a risk that could impact the depth the Oilers are building.

The Edmonton Oilers’ signings of Andrew Mangiapane and Curtis Lazar are important moves in their ongoing roster construction. By adding a proven scorer and a versatile energy forward, the Oilers are reinforcing their forward group as they push toward their championship aspirations.

As the team prepares for the new NHL season, these contracts underscore the Oilers’ commitment to surrounding Connor McDavid with the talent and depth needed to compete at the highest level. Fans can look forward to seeing how Mangiapane and Lazar contribute in Edmonton’s quest for the Stanley Cup.