NHL Rumors: Andrew Mangiapane Turned Down Two Original Six Teams In Free Agency

Andrew Mangiapane was one of the more intriguing middle-six forwards available on the free-agent market this summer, and he had options. 

According to multiple reports, including insights from Elliotte Friedman and David Pagnotta, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins were both pushing hard to sign the Ontario native. But when it came time to choose, Mangiapane passed on two Original Six franchises and instead signed a two-year deal with the Edmonton Oilers.

“[Andrew] Mangiapane is a Toronto kid, last I heard was he was maybe a little concerned about playing in this market as a local... It’s not for everybody.”@RealKyper, @jtbourne & @SamAMcKee discuss players’ perceptions of the Toronto market in free agency.#LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/DvJyu1QZtt

— Sportsnet 590 The FAN (@FAN590) July 3, 2025

Mangiapane turns down two Original Six Franchises

So, why did Mangiapane turn down the Leafs and Bruins? Per Friedman’s “32 Thoughts” podcast, timing was a major factor. Toronto reportedly told Mangiapane they needed to shed salary before finalizing a deal. 

That uncertainty led Mangiapane to walk, as he didn’t want to sit in limbo during the summer while other teams filled out their rosters. Boston was also in the mix but never got close to a deal. Edmonton, meanwhile, came in with a clean offer, the opportunity to play with Leon Draisaitl, and a clear role on a contending team. Mangiapane jumped at the chance.

The Boston Bruins had interest in F Andrew Mangiapane. Per, David Pagnotta.

— Jesse Courville-Lynch (@JCourvilleLynch) July 3, 2025

Fresh start back in Alberta

Toronto fans might take this one personally. Mangiapane is from the GTA and played junior in nearby Barrie. He also played under Brad Treliving in Calgary, making him a logical Leafs target, especially after the team traded away Mitch Marner. 

But instead of returning home, Mangiapane opted for a fresh start in Alberta, where the Oilers are gunning for another deep playoff run. That being said, the 29-year-old has spent seven seasons of his eight-year NHL career in Alberta, with the Calgary Flames, so it's a familiar destination for him.

His decision also came after the team failed to swing a trade for Tampa prospect Isaac Howard, making Mangiapane a timely Plan B to replace the departed Viktor Arvidsson. Now, the Oilers have secured a trade for Howard, making this a win-win for the club.

Photo Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images