By Justin Giampietro,The Hockey Writers
Copyright yardbarker
Mangiapane was the flashier pickup. The 29-year-old inked a two-year, $3.6 million cap-hit deal after the Washington Capitals let him test the market. Last season, he recorded 14 goals and as many assists in 81 contests.
While that’s decent third-line production, the Oilers will be looking for more. Mangiapane peaked in 2021–22 with the Calgary Flames, scoring a career-high 35 goals and adding 20 assists for 55 points. He followed that up with back-to-back 40-point seasons, so he has a history of production to justify his contract.
On the other hand, Tomášek is a true wildcard, signing for one year and $1.2 million. The 29-year-old has no NHL experience, instead spending the last decade playing professionally in Europe. Last season, he led the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) in point-scoring, recording 24 goals and 33 assists for 57 points in 47 games.
Easily his team’s top point-scorer despite being joined by former NHL depth players, Tomášek is a realistic candidate for an everyday role with the Oilers. But can he fill in on the top line, in case of injury? That’s an important question to answer.
The Oilers are giving their offseason additions the chance to prove they not only belong in the lineup, but are capable of playing alongside the best player in the world. Can either Mangiapane or Tomášek hold their own next to McDavid?
