Overall, the 2023-24 version of the Calgary Flames are what we expected them to be; a team that could play well for stretches, but ultimately lacked the elite level talent needed to compete with the top teams in the Western Conference. Despite this though, there were certainly some names that stood out, and not for the right reasons, as there are several contenders to be considered the most disappointing for the Flames this season.
However, after a stellar 2021-22 campaign that saw him net 35 goals during the Flames incredible run to the playoffs, fans expected more from Andrew Mangiapane, and he’s put together a second straight disappointing campaign. Sure, Jonathan Huberdeau and Mikael Backlund both fell short of expectations, but given the potential and bright future that Mangiapane has, it’s disappointing to see him fall so short after one major flashy season.
What a smooth finish on the breakaway from Andrew Mangiapane (@andrewmange13)! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/JzfNBtisqj
— NHL (@NHL) February 28, 2024
Despite playing in 74 games, Mangiapane had the lowest goal total in his career in a full season, netting just 14, the lowest of his career since he had just 8 in 44 games played back in his rookie campaign of 2018-19. At 28-years of age, this type of regression certainly wasn’t expected after Mangiapane inked a solid contract after the 2021-22 campaign, and after being demoted to the fourth line late in the season, it’s tough to see where his future lays in Calgary.
Unfortunately for Mangiapane, there’s many wingers coming through the Flames system with the ability to take his spot, with Martin Pospisil, Yegor Sharangovich, Matt Coronato, Jakob Pelletier and Andrei Kuzmenko all looking for spots in the starting lineup next season. This has led to him becoming a potential trade candidate this summer, but if he remains on the roster, we could be looking at a demotion to the fourth line.
In the community, Mangiapane has been an absolute star for the Flames, becoming their nominee for the King Clancy Award, with ‘Mang’s Breadsticks’ being a fantastic initiative from the long-time Flames forward.
OUR MAIN GRAIN!
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) April 17, 2024
We’re so proud to announce Andrew Mangiapane is our 2024 King Clancy nominee!
The annual award goes to the NHL player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made noteworthy humanitarian contributions in his community ❤️ pic.twitter.com/sdOvDDobTG
Ultimately, Mangiapane being the Flames biggest disappointment comes from the team and the fans belief in him, but he’s running out of chances with the organization, and with this being the final season of his contract, it’s likely that we may be seeing the end of him soon, if we haven’t already.