Edmonton Oilers new free agent forward called out for soft effort this season
Photo credit: Perry Nelson - Imagn Images
In a recent episode of GotYerBack, the hosts talked about the possible reasons why free agent signing Andrew Mangiapane is struggling with his game.
Oilers' free agent disengaged from flow of game
Is there more than what he's (Mangiapane) showing?
I think his game flow is a bit better when he's more emotional, so I think that's a big thing for him.
I though he was a guy that was into it a little bit more...Corey Perry lite.
He did have it, but I think it's washed out of his game. And I think that's part of his problem.
- GYB Podcast hosts
I think his game flow is a bit better when he's more emotional, so I think that's a big thing for him.
I though he was a guy that was into it a little bit more...Corey Perry lite.
He did have it, but I think it's washed out of his game. And I think that's part of his problem.
- GYB Podcast hosts
When Edmonton signed Andrew this summer, it was partly for depth scoring and partly for his reputation as a gritty, competitive player.
So far this season, he's shown to be neither. After 24 games, he's scored 4G and 4A and is a minus-16 in goal differential, 14:48 TOI and just two penalty minutes. It's a stat-line that indicates little engagement when h'e on the ice.
Mangiapane is not considered a physical player, per se; he is known more for his skill, speed, and high compete level, which helps him overcome his smaller stature.
Yet, it's the compete level that is missing, which usually leads to tenacious forechecking, high work ethic, and ability to get to the "dirty areas" of the ice, all of which he is capable of doing, when he's competing.
His style has been described as annoying to play against by opponents, much like Brad Marchand. This gritty, competitive style, combined with his offensive skill and defensive responsibility, makes Andrew a valuable two-way forward when he's on his game.
Trouble is, when the team is lacking an identity, it's difficult for a player to know exactly what style of game he must adapt, which seems to be an issue with this club.
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