Former 35-Goal Scorer Emerges as Unexpected Free Agency Target for the Penguins

The Washington Capitals were one of the big surprises around the NHL this season, but they were ultimately unable to replicate their regular-season success in the playoffs.

29-year-old forward Andrew Mangiapane played a depth role for the team after coming coming over from Calgary, putting up 14 goals and 28 points in 82 games.

He followed that up with a single goal and 2 points in 10 playoff contests.

Now it appears as though the veteran will test free agency on July 1st, according to NHL insider David Pagnotta.

Mangiapane should attract interest around the league as he is a proven depth scorer who also plays well in his own end.

One team that could have interest in Mangiapane would of course be the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The 29-year-old fits the mold of other players Kyle Dubas has brought in over the past two seasons in an attempt to supplement his aging core.

Furthermore, reports have emerged that Dubas is not planning on making major additions in free agency.

That being said, he will surely me making some signings as the team has just 11 forwards under contract for next season.

Adding Mangiapane certainly wouldn't be considered a major move, but it could be one that bolsters the team's depth and penalty kill, two areas where they struggled last season.

At the same time, Mangiapane has proven to be more effective offensively in the past as he recorded a 34-goal season with the Flames during the 2021-22 season.

If he could return to that form in Pittsburgh that could go a long way to making the team more competitive while also boosting his trade value should the team fall short of the playoffs again.

Be sure to stay tuned over the next couple of weeks to see what decisions Dubas makes in free agency as they could have long-term consequences for the team.