Oilers Place Mangiapane & Regula on Waivers: Samanski & Howard Recalled

The Edmonton Oilers are maneuvering to maximize cap space and inject fresh energy into their lineup, a process that saw Andrew Mangiapane and Alec Regula clear waivers on Monday, according to reports. Both players have been assigned to the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors and will need to play in one game before being eligible for recall.

The moves pave the way for the Oilers to bring up forwards Josh Samanski and Isaac Howard from Bakersfield. This strategic recall isn’t simply about adding players; it’s about optimizing the team’s financial flexibility, particularly with Mattias Janmark expected to be placed on long-term injured reserve. The Oilers will save approximately $1.15 million against the cap with Mangiapane in the AHL, and another $700,000 with Regula, allowing them to better manage bonus structures in Samanski and Howard’s contracts.

Mangiapane’s demotion comes after a disappointing season with the Oilers. Acquired last summer on a two-year, $3.6 million AAV contract, the 29-year-old has produced just seven goals and 14 points in 52 games. This represents a significant downturn in production compared to his recent history. Last season with the Washington Capitals, he registered 14 goals and 28 points in 81 games, and the year prior, 14 goals and 40 points in 75 games with the Calgary Flames. His career best came in 2021-22 with Calgary, where he scored 35 goals and 55 points.

Despite his struggles this season, Mangiapane’s contract and past performance haven’t entirely extinguished trade interest. The Oilers have been actively seeking a trade partner since late December, and reports suggest a deal could materialize before the trade deadline on Friday. Waiving Mangiapane, however, potentially increases his trade value. As Sporting News notes, an acquiring team can now send him directly to the AHL, and the Oilers might even offer a sweetener to facilitate the deal.

Regula, a defenseman, has appeared in 29 games for the Oilers this season, recording three assists. His last NHL appearance was on January 20th, after which he was loaned to Bakersfield on a conditioning stint before being recalled. His struggles to establish himself as a consistent NHL player contributed to the decision to waive him.

The incoming players, Samanski and Howard, represent a potential infusion of youthful talent. Samanski, 23, made his NHL debut on January 26th, playing in five games and even skating on a line with Leon Draisaitl during that stretch. He’s been a standout performer in the AHL this season, with eight goals and 31 points in 44 games. Howard, meanwhile, has also impressed in Bakersfield, scoring 14 goals and 32 points in 30 games. He’s had two stints with the Oilers this season, totaling 28 games played, two goals, and five points.

Howard’s previous NHL experience includes 11 games in January, before being sent back down to Bakersfield. His strong performance in the AHL suggests he’s ready for another opportunity at the NHL level.

The Oilers’ schedule continues with a home game against the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday, followed by a Friday night matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes. They then embark on a five-game road trip, beginning Sunday against the Vegas Golden Knights, with subsequent stops in Colorado, Dallas, and St. Louis. These roster moves are clearly intended to bolster the team’s depth and cap flexibility as they navigate a crucial stretch of the season.