How Connor McDavid-Leon Draisaitl played major role in Edmonton Oilers' latest $7.2 million signing Andrew Mangiapane?

The Edmonton Oilers shed out huge money in the free agency this week after signing forward Andrew Mangiapane on a two-year deal worth a whopping $7.2 million. The team's star players such as Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl played a major role in recruiting Mangiapane to join the franchise.

Connor McDavid-Leon Draisaitl's role in signing Andrew Mangiapane

Andrew Mangiapane was a free agent since July 1 as he completed one year with Washington Capitals. He earlier played seven seasons for Calgary Flames to begin his NHL career.

During the Oilers Now with Bob Stauffer podcast, Mangiapane explained how Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl played a pivotal role in his signing process.

Yeah, obviously there's a lot of emotions, and people pulling you this way and that way and wanting you here or there. But when you have those two caliber players calling you, you tend to listen, Mangiapane said.

They're two great players, and I just want to come and be a part of a winning team and winning culture. I want to contribute in whichever way possible. But yeah, when those guys call you, you tend to listen to them and listen to what they have to say, he added.

Andrew Mangiapane has 14 goal, 14 assist to his name with the Capitals. He will provide the scoring option to the Edmonton Oilers, which they are seeking. He now has a chance to play with elite players such as McDavid and Draisaitl.

Oilers GM on Andrew Mangiapane signing

Edmonton Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman mentioned that Oilers have long admired the skillset of Mangiapane and believes he will be a strong addition to their roster.

We've been watching him for years now and like the contributions he can make in a number of different roles. Obviously starting with offensively, I think he's got the ability to play in our top six, Bowman said via NHL.com.

Bowman also feels that Mangiapane is a player who is capable of playing alongside McDavid and Draisaitl. Bowman even praised his two-way play and penalty killing ability.

I think the other thing we like about him is just his ability to extend the play, sort of like a give-and-go game. He's an active player. He's also a competitive player. He's not the most fun to play against.

It will be interesting to see how Andrew Mangiapane fairs out when he plays for his new team, the Edmonton Oilers.