Originally a fourth-round draft pick in 2014, Mantha struggled to impress the New York Rangers, who left him unsigned. The 6-foot-5, 225-pound blueliner seems to fit the Oilers’ criteria when it comes to their defence corps. He is big, physical, stay-at-home defender, and has bloodlines that run through the NHL. His father, Moe Mantha, played over 600 NHL games, including 25 for Edmonton.
Mantha possesses a variety of skills that will be of help in the Oilers’ organization. Though he lacks foot speed, he has been working on that and makes up for it with his ability. The 20-year-old possesses the ideal NHL frame and has a first strong pass and a booming shot.