The Edmonton Oilers are healthy-scratching Andrew Mangiapane and Trent Frederic for tonight’s game against the Nashville Predators.

If you’ve been paying attention to the fanbase lately, this is exactly what they’ve been asking for. And honestly? Can you blame them?

These aren’t depth pieces getting squeezed out by a hot streak from younger players. These are supposed contributors who simply haven’t delivered what they were brought here to do.

Start with Frederic. The Oilers acquired him to bring physicality, energy, and an edge to their bottom six. He was supposed to be the kind of player who makes life difficult for opponents, who finishes checks, and who creates space through intimidation and grit. That hasn’t happened. He’s been largely invisible in the role he was specifically brought in to fill. When you’re acquired for a specific purpose, and you’re not doing it, the leash gets short quickly.

Then there’s Mangiapane, whose situation has become increasingly awkward. He reportedly doesn’t want to be in Edmonton anymore, and it shows. When a player has mentally checked out, it’s hard to justify keeping him in the lineup over guys who actually want to be there. The effort and engagement just aren’t what they need to be, and in a league where desire and compete level matter as much as skill, that’s a dealbreaker.

The Oilers are paying Mangiapane to produce and compete. They’re not getting either. At some point, you have to make a decision about whether you’re rewarding past performance or current contribution. Knoblauch has clearly decided it’s the latter.

What makes these scratches significant is that they signal the coaching staff is willing to make uncomfortable decisions. It’s easy to scratch a young player or a fourth-liner who isn’t producing. It’s harder to scratch veterans with established track records and significant contracts. But that’s exactly what needs to happen when those players aren’t holding up their end.

Fans have been vocal about wanting accountability throughout the lineup, not just for the young guys trying to establish themselves. They’ve watched Frederic fail to bring the edge he was acquired for. They’ve watched Mangiapane’s disinterest become increasingly obvious. Tonight, they’re getting what they asked for.

RNH – McDavid – Hyman

Podkolzin- Draisaitl – Kapanen

Howard – Henrique – Roslovic

Janmark – Lazar – Savoie

Ekholm – Bouchard

Nurse – Regula

Stastney – Emberson

Walman – Stillman

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