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Andrew Mangiapane opens up on frustration after healthy scratch, confirming trade rumours
Photo credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images
Disgruntled forward Andrew Mangiapane spoke about his anger and about what he needs to change in his game, so as not to be a healthy scratch again.
On December 29th against the Winnipeg Jets, Mangiapane was scratched from the lineup and had this to say about the experience:
There was a bit of anger I didn't play last game but that's behind us now.
To be honest, I'm not really sure (where things stand). That's the business side of it. We'll see how it plays out but it's something that's beyond my control. I will continue to focus on hockey
- Andrew Mangiapane
To be honest, I'm not really sure (where things stand). That's the business side of it. We'll see how it plays out but it's something that's beyond my control. I will continue to focus on hockey
- Andrew Mangiapane
There is indeed a lot of uncertainty surrounding the 29-year old winger, who just this summer signed to a 2-year deal at a $3.6M AAV.
Uncertainty surrounding his play, which has lacked both confidence and grit; and uncertainty surrounding his status with the Oilers.
As of today, the only likely reason he's still with the club is his no-trade clause.
Though Andrew has not outwardly said that we wishes to be traded, nor has he rejected the idea when asked.
His position is certainly tenuous, though his agent Allen Roy was reportedly given permission to shop Mangiapane to interested teams.
Of course, the former-Calgary Flame knows what he needs to do to change his role with the Oilers.
"For myself, I have to be more on the puck, closer in the battles, be tenacious," Mangiapane was quoted saying in the article. "Be in the battle, not on the perimeter waiting for somebody to get me the puck...move my feet."
Even so, he may not be around for too much longer. With the call-up of Hutson and Howard from Bakersfield, changes will be made to the roster, with Andrew being the most obvious to lose his spot.
If we see him continue to play, it may just be to showcase him to other teams.