Speculation is swirling around the Columbus Blue Jackets and Edmonton Oilers after surprising late-minute lineup changes on Monday, December 29, 2025. Andrew Mangiapane was a healthy scratch for the Oilers, while Sean Monahan was mysteriously sidelined for the Blue Jackets due to "maintenance". These decisions have ignited trade rumors connecting the two teams, though each situation could have an independent explanation.
Mangiapane's absence from the Oilers' lineup against Winnipeg raised eyebrows, especially since he was initially slated to play on the fourth line. Earlier reports suggested that the Oilers had permitted Mangiapane's agent to explore potential trades. However, conflicting reports indicated that neither the player nor his agent had been formally notified of any imminent deal. Such circumstances often lead teams to hold players out as a precaution during trade discussions to prevent potential injuries. The Oilers' tight salary cap situation further fuels speculation, with Mangiapane's name frequently mentioned as a potential trade piece to create roster flexibility. One source noted that Mangiapane's recent performance might be a factor in the scratching, suggesting a higher standard for playing time within the team.
Meanwhile, Monahan's absence from the Blue Jackets' lineup was attributed to "maintenance," a vague reason that has done little to quell trade rumors. Columbus had previously traded forward Yegor Chinakhov to the Pittsburgh Penguins for Danton Heinen and draft picks. Chinakhov had previously requested a trade for more ice time.
While there's no concrete evidence linking the two situations, the coincidental timing of these scratches has naturally led to speculation about a potential trade between Columbus and Edmonton. Whether these lineup decisions are independent events or precursors to a deal remains to be seen, but they've undoubtedly added intrigue as the season progresses.
It's worth noting that the Oilers were linked to Chinakhov in September, prior to his trade to Pittsburgh. At the time, it was reported that Chinakhov wanted to move ahead with his trade request, with the Oilers and Chicago Blackhawks as prime candidates to acquire him. Ultimately, Chinakhov was traded to Pittsburgh.
